ALEXIS LOSSE ’16

Senior Holly Brautigam is already known for her beautiful voice and amazing acting in the many plays and musicals of Seattle Prep, however some may not know her other passion. Holly has been participating in Kenpo karate for 10 years now and spends 3-5 hours of her week practicing drilling techniques and basics in order to constantly improve.

Brautigam started karate because her aunt was a victim of domestic violence and she wanted to make sure she was never in a position where she felt as powerless as her aunt did. On top of that, Brautigam says karate is a good way to boost her confidence in herself as well as a good way release stress while working out. Brautigam is an adult black belt and working on her first degree.

When asked about her favorite karate move she said, “My favorite move in karate is the rear leg round house kick because she says you can generate a lot of power using the momentum of your entire body, making it really powerful and a great way to stop an attack”.

Although Brautigam loves karate, she doesn’t have enough time to participate in karate competitions because of her other hobbies which include kickboxing, choir, Irish dance, and writing. Brautigam has had time to break a board however which is a requirement to earn a black belt.

When asked about her Sensei, Brautigam said, “He has taught me that karate is more than just punches and kicks. He’s shown me that in order to be a black belt, you have to act like one in all aspects of your life. You must show courage, kindness, compassion and countless other things in order to truly be a black belt.”

Brautigam’s passion for karate is inspirational and she says it’s partially due to her parents for cheering her on every step of the way and never letting her quit or give up. Brautigam plans to continue karate in college, and Prep wishes her luck as she continues on into college, and becomes the next “Karate Kid”.