Richard Fenten (“Captain”)

3rd Dan

Richard Fenten began training with Master Zacharatos when he was in his early forties. He began competing in sparring in karate tournaments when he was just a white belt beginner, and continued to compete all the way up the ranks, including as a blackbelt. He would also go to other martial arts schools to get extra sparring! He also has experience in wrestling.

Earning the nickname “Captain” he’s in better shape than most half his age, he acheived his blackblelt  when he was 52 years old in 1997, and is an example of how it is never too late to start training and acheive your goals in the Martial Arts. Earning many first and second place trophies, he continued to compete in the black belt sparring divisions of karate tournaments all over the United States, and many times against competitors less than half is age, earning the respect of all.   

He continued to train with us for many years, learning escrima stick weapons, and earning his second degree blackbelt in 2004, and his third degree in 2006.

This is a perfect example of how there is never a good excuse not to train –Working out keeps you young! (and you can still have a six pack when your in your 60’s, 70’s and beyond)

Later in life he also continued his academic pursuits. he went back to college and received his Masters degree. Another example of how our blackbelts are high achievers and very accomplished in their lives at any age!

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Captain competing in the Long Beach International competition 1995 winning first place in his division
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Captain Winning first Place in the Black Belt division pictured with Master Z