By Tamara Knell
Staff Writer
While most students spent winter break relaxing, junior Lana Granow participated in an intense karate camp, called Camp Mitsumini, in Tokyo, Japan. Granow was the only American at the camp.
For the past seven years, Granow has been practicing the kyokushin-style of karate. Granow had to attend the camp to take the test for her black belt in March.
“The camp was a really great experience,” Granow said. “ It provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me.”
According to Granow, her family has been encouraging and supporting her since she started participating in karate at the age of nine.
“Karate has helped Lana remain focused in all aspects of her life,” Lana’s sister, Costa alum Nina Granow, said.
Granow first began karate because her mother wanted her to learn self-defense. However, she realized that she loved the sport and has continued ever since.
“Karate is something I see myself doing for a while,” Granow said. “ It is really fun, and I encourage everybody to try it.”
The camp was only three days long, but it consisted of intensive training. This included early morning karate practices, a 14-mile run and a hike to a freshwater waterfall. All participants had to stand under the cold waterfall for two minutes in order to prove their determination.
“Although it was tough, I enjoyed the camp,” Granow said. “I got to see a completely different culture while practicing what I love to do.”
Granow trained at Power Karate Studio in order to prepare for Camp Mitsumini. She practiced three times a week and did other physical training two times a week.
“Lana is the most determined person I know,” Lana’s peer, Alexis Michaela, said. “Watching her inspires me to do better.”
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