Patrick Herron | Moco Show
Fabianna Herrera, instructor/Sensei at Senshi Karate Do in Montgomery Village, won the National Gold Medal in two categories – Women’s 16-34 Kata and Style Specific, at this year’s USANKF Karate Championships, which was held July 13-16th in Richmond, VA. Seventeen of Fabiana’s students also competed in junior divisions, bringing home a Total of 22 Medals – 7 Gold, 8 Silver, and 7 Bronze. The USANKF Karate Championships saw competitors from across the United States, including several who have represented the country at the Olympic Games. It is considered the most significant event on the Olympic circuit for karate.
Fabianna is a 2020 graduate of Clarksburg High School and started her karate journey at the age of seven, when she began training with her parents, David Abraham and Karla Flores, owners of the Senshi Karate dojo. Over the past decade she has participated in numerous competitions, including a Gold Medal win at last year’s US Open in Las Vegas. In 2019, Herrera earned a spot on Team USA’s roster.
Fabianna’s tells us, “Karate is a way of life. It teaches respect, discipline, focus, and above all, courage. Courage to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Whether it be earning a new belt rank, or participating in competitions, my aim is to help my students build the confidence that will help them to have a successful life. When you love what you do and find joy in it, everything else comes easy. I am honored to represent my Dojo and the state of Maryland while doing what I love most.”
With her recent wins at the USANKF Karate Championships, Fabianna Herrera’s dedication to her craft is evident. By imparting the values of work ethics, discipline, and the importance of setting ambitious goals, she hopes to inspire young martial artists and athletes. “It means so much to be a role model for my students, but they are the ones who inspire me! Their words of encouragement and admiration are what motivate me to better myself every day.”