Kids Martial Arts After School Classes New York City From Igor Dyachenko’s early days (6 of 7) It was then Mr. Dyachenko knew his son was becoming a young man and Karate would be his stepfather. As Igor grew, so did his many questions, once asked by a precocious 6-year old son to a patient and dedicated dad. They both knew Ukraine may not give him the answers, or inspiration to pursue a dream. After receiving his education degree, at 17, the non-English speaking Ukrainian said goodbye to his family and hello to the United States. He arrived in New York City, without a job, a home, family or friends, but with $300, a black belt in Karate, and a passion to survive, to thrive in the greatest city in the world.
While in New York, Igor worked various odd jobs, earning money to pay the cost of living, competitions and travel photos and gifts to send back home to his mom and dad. Traveling the US, he competed in a variety of tournaments, but found the US Kata referees judging style different from the World judges, so he returned to Kumite. He knew his parents may not approve. But by 2000, at nineteen, Igor held three national championship records in the United States. His most treasured win came in 2003; 1st place in individual Kumite at FSKA’s 5th World Karate Championships in Las Vegas. He had travel photos to share, but this year he’d mentally dedicate his trophy to the loving memory of his father. And he promised to keep strong for his family, and the love of the sport. Kids Martial Arts After School Classes New York City Continue here