Rangeley Health and Wellness karate students with medals and trophies at the Regional Martial Arts Tournament in Westborough, MA on Saturday, March 29. Submitted photo

RANGELEY —  Dedicated and hardworking karate students from Rangeley Health and Wellness (RHW) traveled to a Regional Martial Arts Tournament in Westborough, MA on Saturday, March 29, competing alongside over one hundred other young martial artists. Rangeley’s group represented their community with skill, courage, and pride.

Seven RHW karate students ages 6 -14 competed in both the forms (or “kata”) division and the sparring events. For many of these students, this marked their first tournament experience—a milestone that required not only technical skill but bravery and composure.

The Rangeley team brought back a total of three 2nd place trophies, two 4th place trophies, and a fistful of medals—showcasing the courage, effort, and spirit of these young athletes. Each competitor made Rangeley proud, not just for the medals and trophies earned, but for the confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship they displayed throughout the event. Their poise in the ring reflected countless hours of training dedicated to their practice and genuine love of the sport. This group became winners the moment they stepped onto the mat, and their effort and attitude made a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

RHW’s martial arts program is led by Master Dan Simpson, aka “Sensei Dan”, a 5^th Degree Black Belt in Shaolin Kempo Karate. He brings 20 years of teaching experience to the sport of karate and has been instructing at Rangeley Health and Wellness since 2022. Together with professional instruction, the encouragement and support of parents and families play a vital role in the success of these young athletes and the RHW karate program.

Karate is just one of the tailored programs for children offered at Rangeley Health and Wellness. RHW is proud to also offer Children in Action (CIA), an enriching after-school experience for students in grades K-6, a nature-based Back to Nature summer camp and Youth Soccer camps in July and August.  Built on a promise to promote community wellness, RHW is committed to providing educational programs designed to keep children active, engaged, and inspired throughout the year.

Tax deductible gifts to RHW provide vital funding for children’s programs, empowering all kids to grow, learn, and succeed through healthy, active lifestyles. To support local programming that includes Karate, CIA, Back to Nature and Soccer visit RRHWP.org, or call 207-864-4397 ext. 101. Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference.