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Lalor local has a black belt in determination
BY ANNIE KOIKER
05 Mar, 2012 01:18 PM
PECE Naumovski began taking karate lessons after becoming enthralled by the action in martial arts films at the age of eight. Six years later, the Lalor resident has fought his way through more than 100 competitions, with spectacular results.
Naumovski obtained his black belt, first dan, in just five years. He also holds a coveted World Championship title – which he admits is his proudest achievement to date.
Naumovski balances his year 10 studies at Thomastown Secondary College with a gruelling training regime under the guidance of coaches Jason Knight and Morgan Abouzid at Go-Kan-Ryu Karate.
“Some days we focus on my fitness, practising cardio and stamina exercises, and then we spend a lot of time practising drills,” he says.
Naumovski has represented Australia on numerous occasions and has kicked and blocked his way around the globe.
“I’ve probably been to about 10 major competitions around the world; in Greece, North America, Germany, Japan, and England,” he says.
“I’ve met some great people along the way, and also some tough competitors. It’s always good to see how people from all around the world train.”
Naumovski has numerous inspirations, but names Hollywood star and martial arts icon Bruce Lee as his favourite.
“Although his style is different... what I find
most powerful is his determination” he says.
Naumovski’s karate takes up most of his spare time, but he manages a happy social life with the support of family and friends.
“It helps me stay focused, because I know I have to be determined to reach the levels I’m aiming for,” he says.
While planning a future in karate, Naumovski is realistic about the benefits of study. He aims “to finish VCE, go on to university and leave with a degree.”
But first, the next big step for Naumovski is the European Championships in Austria in June. Students from more than 60 countries will compete for the title. Further down the track he would ‘‘love to open a club somewhere, and have my own place’’.
Naumovski was recently nominated for Whittlesea’s 2012 Australia Day Awards for devotion to karate.
He is grateful for the support he gets from the community and tries to give something back by helping at the Donnybrook Monastery each Sunday.
“I have a lot of sponsors in the area, and from the Macedonian community, who are an incredible help to me and my family.”
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