Young fighter drew family into karate

NATASHA MARTIN/Timaru Herald

FAMILY AFFAIR: Pauline, 13-year-old Logan and Noel Jackson have all gained their black belts in Kyokushin karate.

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Following their son's sporting interest has turned into a trio of black belts for the Mackenzie's Jackson family.

Logan Jackson started at the Timaru Kyokushin Karate Club at the age of seven.

One of his parents had to drive him to Timaru from their home at the base of Burkes Pass two to three times a week.

So rather than sit and watch, Logan's parents, Pauline and Noel, decided to have a go and now each has a black belt.

Pauline was first to get her black belt in Wellington last year while father and son were successful in Napier last month.

Noel said he had basically got off the couch to being the fittest he has ever been, six years from starting.

"We had always supported the kids in their soccer and hockey, but the karate was a bit different.

"As we had to drive down there [Timaru], we thought why not do it, and its been great."

Noel said he really enjoyed karate as he operated his business, High Country Motorcycles, from home.

"It takes us right away from it, you have to be psyched into it which is great, not thinking about business, only karate."

As for who is boss with three black belts in the family, Noel admits he "bows" to his wife as she was first to qualify.

The family will probably keep making the journey to Timaru as their 11-year-old son Campbell has a green belt already.

Noel admits there are still challenges including starting to tutor those who are starting out.

"They say you are always learning and really, the black belt is just the beginning of it."

Pauline agrees it is good for both mind and body.

"It keeps the mind active and I enjoy the technical learning part of the sport."

- © Fairfax NZ News