MEDALING AT THE 2026 WORLD KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ROMANIA
Dreams Realized, as two local athletes stood on the ‘Medal Podium’, draped in the USA Flag, listening to our National Anthem, at the 14th ANNUAL AAU WUKF WORLD KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS, in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. This International Tournament hosted over 2100 International Competitors, representing nearly 50 countries, and 5 days of intense competition in multiple events (Kata, Kumite, Kobudo).
Congratulations John Ono Jurkiewicz, age 21, earning a Silver Medal in Style-Specific Kata (Goju-ryu); Congratulations Roman Brooks Harris, age 39, earning a Bronze Medal in Long Weapons (Bo), and a Bronze Medal in Short Weapons (Sai).
Training in Windham, NH, at Golden Crane Traditional Martial Arts, these 2 athletes, along with Tara Farrell, age 14, were selected by the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) to represent their Country, joining a USA Team comprised of over 170 American Athletes. (Although selected to join the US Team, Tara had previous school commitments that prevented her from travelling to Romania).
Part of the Selection Process to be invited to join Team USA, was based on these athletes’ performances at Regional and National Karate Events & Tournaments, where they often demonstrated consistent podium-level success across multiple premier events (Kata, Kobudo).
A quote from John’s Mother:
“… Our family could not be more proud of Johns dedication to his martial arts journey. Martial Arts has been a saving grace of his physical and mental health. This journey has provided him incredible experiences and opportunities to meet some amazing people along the way. He is truly blessed to be able to train with Hanshi Diane McMullen and the Golden Crane Dojo… Jennie Jurkiewicz”
A quote from Roman’s Mother:
“…After a 22 year hiatus my son, Roman returned to karate full force. Roman ended up becoming a force to be reckoned with in the martial arts community. He needed to challenge himself to be the best he can be.
In just a few short years since returning to karate, Roman has gone above and beyond even his own expectations! To see Roman excel in what he loves gives me such joy and fills me with enormous pride!... Nancy Harris”
A quote from Tara’s Father:
“…Selection for the AAU US World Championship Karate Team is an honor earned through years of relentless hard work and discipline. Beyond the talent, it is Tara’s unmatched work ethic and drive that have brought her to the world stage.
We could not be prouder of her dedication and achievements…. Mark Farrell”
On Saturday, August 8th, Students, Families and Friends of the Golden Crane attended the NH Fisher Cats Baseball Game, at Delta Dental Stadium. As part of the pre-game program, Students from the Golden Crane, including Roman and John, demonstrated their skills.
At the Baseball Game, both Roman and John received recognition from the crowd, as the NH Fisher Cats announced their achievements, to a record* crowd of attendees (*as reported by the NH Fisher Cats, the Aug.8th game was the largest home crowd since 2022).
Golden Crane Traditional Martial Arts provides a positive learning environment where students of all ages can train, studying various traditional martial arts, including: Karate, Iaido, Kobudo.
Our school is located at 46 Lowell Rd, Windham NH, where we offer classes for students ages 4 ½ years, and above. We welcome all inquiries regarding our Classes & Programs, including membership in our Competition Team Program.
Join us for a FREE Trial Class!
Back-to-School Special Membership: 6 weeks for $49, AND, for a limited time, we are offering our BOGO** (Buy one 6-week membership, and receive a 2nd 6-week membership FREE). **But only through 9/15/2026, and the 2nd membership must be redeemed by another family member or friend. Offer cannot be combined.
Please email us for details: goldencrane04@gmail.com, or visit our website: www.goldencraneNH.com for more information. Thank you.
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