Three Albany High School students can officially call themselves “world champions” after traveling to Scotland earlier this month to test their top-notch karate against competitors from around the globe.
The skills of Janiah Johnson, Joseph McCarthy and Claire Patnaude allowed them to compete in the 7th Annual World Union of Karate-Do Federations’ World Karate Championships from June 12-18 as members of the Amateur Athletic Union’s United States National Karate Team.
All three students have been involved in karate since elementary school, and their hard work and dedication to the craft have clearly paid off. At the competition, McCarthy earned a second-place finish in his age group and style. Patnaude also brought home a third-place medal as part of a team competition.
Their victories helped the US team – comprised of 102 athletes from across the country – place second overall at the competition, with a total of 78 medals. You can continue to cheer on Johnson, McCarthy and Patnaude as they are currently competing in the AAU National Karate Competition in Fort Lauderdale until June 30.
The mission of the City School District of Albanyis to work in partnership with our diverse community to engage every learner in a robust educational program designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for success. The district serves about 9,500 students in 18 elementary, middle and high schools. In addition to neighborhood schools, the district includes several magnet schools and programs, as well as other innovative academic opportunities for students, including four themed academies at Albany High School.
