Personal

I started practicing karate as an adult. At first, karate was an activity to try while marathon and triathlon training. Then it became an activity I could share with my step-son who had been training and competing for several years. As I started to meet other karatekas and competing, I became hooked. I wanted to learn more, train more, and test my skills through competition....My wife introduced me to endurance sports and I have competed in many marathons and triathlons. ...Despite my vision loss, I actively participate in kumite training and, on occasion, kumite competition. ...I collaborate with colleagues around the world to conduct and publish academic research on human potentials in the face of adversity.

Career Highlights

Training and competing with USANKF Para Team
Training and competing with my step-son
Participating in the WI State Championships Family Kata division with my 4-year old daughter
Second place in 2022 USA Open (para kata)
First place in 2022 USA Open (para kobudo)
First place in 2021 USA Open (para kata)
First place in 2021 USA Open (para kobudo)
Second place in 2021 National Championships (para kata)
First place in 2021 National Championships (para kobudo)
First place in 2019 National Championships (para kata)
Second place in 2018 National Championships (para kata)
Second place in 2018 National Championships (Korean kata)

Elijah Gilca

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