Karate competition season is soon to kick back into action for WS Junior Payam Rastegar.

Next month, Rastegar is entering the International Shotokan Karate Federation’s National Championship which is set to take place in Cincinnati on November 16-17^th.

It takes a lot of preparation to be able to compete in such high paced competitions. Every year, thousands of fighters flock to these events in order to show off their skill and technique in hopes of earning a spot on the podium.

“I’ve been training for this tournament since June, I practice 5 times a week for 2 hours a day in preparation” said Rastegar.

The competition will involve both men and women from youth to seniors, all competing for the National title. Like most Karate competitions, fighters will be assigned fights based not only on age but also the belt color they have earned throughout their Karate training. Rastegar has been involved in the world of Karate since he was just 6 years old.

“I was always interested in self-defense, I love being able to protect myself,” said Rastegar.

Even at a young age, Rastegar loved the competitive Karate atmosphere and always strived for the best. Through all of the hard work he’s put in over the years, Rastegar has earned a 3^rd degree black belt, which is one of the highest degrees a person can earn. The inspiration to succeed in the world of Karate came from the dedication of his older brother Pedran Rastegar.

“Pedran is the 2 time National Champ in the ISKF, and has also won the ISKF Worlds Championship. He is my mentor, coach, and inspiration. He’s taught me everything I know”

With the help of his Brother, Rastegar continues to train for not only the upcoming ISKF Championship, but also future important and challenging competitions.

“In 2014 there is a Pan-Am tournament which is held in Mexico; hopefully if I work hard enough I will be able to compete,” said Rastegar.

While tournaments and competitions are a major focus for Rastegar, the 2016 Olympics are what he is striving for. Although Martial Arts could potentially be removed from the wide variety of events, Rastegar still trains and competes in hopes of reaching his ultimate goal of competing for the USA in the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.

“The Olympics would be a dream come true for me, so I will continue to work and train so I can make it come true”