Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeFifth grader earns martial arts black belt

Fifth grader earns martial arts black belt

By Jason Tang - bio | email

HONOLULU (KHNL) - He can break wood with his hand, is a black belt in karate, and is a fifth grader at Ma'ema'e elementary? Layne Fujioka is an extraordinary martial artist.

"It's very rare for a 10 year old to get a black belt because of the demands," said Smart Karate chief instructor Bobby Duckworth.

There's training, memorizing forms and being able to control one's body movements. Things many typical 10 year olds struggle doing. But Layne claims being a black belt runs in the family.

"My dad is a black belt in judo and my mom is a black belt in housework," said Fujioka.

Last month Layne tested for his belt and he passed with flying colors, something which doesn't surprise his Sensei.

"He reminds me of a champion, that's the easiest way I can put it he is a champion, he's a warrior," said Duckworth.

However, karate isn't what his goals are in the future. When he grows up, he wants to be a forensic anthropologist.

"It's a person who studies dead bodies and figures out how long the body's been dead. And how come you want to do that? Because I like bugs and I like dead bodies."

Layne excels in practically everything he does. From martial arts to his studies in school. But not even he can explain where his motivation comes from.

"I don't know, i just want to get it done."