Seven Chris Welbon Karate team members won gold medals at last weekend’s AAU Karate Nationals tournament. For Robbie Spitler, though, winning gold in Sanbon Kumite was huge. “He is our youngest team member and has struggled all year in tournament competition,” Welbon says. “For him to come through with a first place (win) at a national event is a wonderful accomplishment.”
How was the tournament?
I didn’t expect to get that far. But my last match, the last 10 seconds, I didn’t want to lose to him. So, I just went in there and got that reverse punch.
What was the competition like?
It was a really long day. In Kata, I lost my second round. Me and my brother and one of my friends did team sparring and team Kata. We got fourth place — close to third.
The kids you sparred against, how good were they?
Well, my first match, I got a little lucky. Then, I got more confident, so, in my second round, it was kind of easy.
Tell me about that first match. How did you get lucky?
I almost lost. Luckily, he didn’t get all of the points, so I didn’t lose.
Was this your first gold medal?
Yes.
So, what’s next for you?
I’m going to do tournament team next year and, at nationals, I hope to get another gold.
What are some of your hobbies?
I like riding my bike and going to the pool and swimming. I don’t play other sports. I like to play Plants vs. Zombies and Halo.
What are your favorite movies?
“How to Train Your Dragon.” I haven’t seen the second one yet.
What’s your favorite book?
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid.”
Favorite TV show?
“American Ninja Warrior.”
Favorite food?
I like steak. I like pizza, but I don’t eat it that much.
Where do you go to school?
Advantage Academy of Hillsborough. I like math. I don’t really like reading.
Who are you favorite athletes?
George Kotaka and, obviously, my brother (Joey). Sometimes, I look up to him. Depends on what he’s doing.
How long have you been doing karate?
Two years. I hope to do this until I’m a black belt. I’m a green belt in tournaments, but, at the dojo, I’m a brown belt. I have two more belts to go in the dojo.
When do you think you can do that?
Probably a year-and-a-half?
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To fly.