FIGHTING HIGHLIGHT REEL

First off, huge appreciation from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has been supporting me already so much on my journey, I would not be able to stay on this path without your tremendous support.

Starting karate at the age of 7 years old, my dream is to become World Champion with my current goal being to qualify for the 2023 Pan American Olympic Games. The photo above is from the 2022 US Open Championships (April) where I earned gold in the open weight division and bronze in the +84kg elite division.

After earning silver at the Canadian National Championships this past July, I've been selected to represent Canada at the Commonwealth Championships in England this upcoming September 7-8th. I will also compete at the Commonwealth Club Championships on the 9-11th for further international experience.

In preparation to qualify for the 2023 Pan-Am Olympic Games, after a very recent invitation, I wish to directly travel to Istanbul for a karate training camp that is limited to top-level athletes from around the world (if funds allow). I will then compete in a Karate 1 Series-A Tournament, immediately followed by the University Combat Games World Cup.

Unfortunately, Canada has very limited financial support for karate athletes such as myself who are yet to achieve top international status. As such, I have to pay for all expenses on my own.

By next year, I will have completed my Bachelor's in Kinesiology at the University of British Columbia. Between school tuition costs and karate costs, it is extremely challenging to continue representing Canada at the international level on my own, so any contribution no matter how small is incredibly appreciated. I've been able to cover a large portion of the costs, but I humbly ask again for your support to stay on this journey until I can become financially self-sufficient as a professional karate athlete.

I fight for my dream of reaching the top not only for myself but also for my country, my community and for all the people in my life who have helped me become a better person. Most importantly, I want to inspire the next generation of athletes in Canada to believe that even when faced with tremendous obstacles, it's possible to reach your dreams and make a positive impact on the people around you.

To my family, coach, teammates, and the Karate Canada staff, thank you for your continued support and for getting me step by step closer to my dreams. Also, thanks from the bottom of my heart in advance for your generous support. This would not be possible without the incredible community I'm blessed to have.

The funds raised will be used to help cover travel and competition costs, which include airline tickets, insurance, accommodation, food, registration and training fees and national team fees. After these events, with enough funds, I'm planning to attend the postponed USA Premier League this October, and will continue working hard to earn a spot at the 2023 Pan American Olympic Games.

Sincerely,

Fernando Aguilera