RUSSELL Price of Cooroy earned his karate black belt at the age of 16 through blood, sweat, tears and hard work – delivering newspapers in freezing Welsh conditions to fund his training.
After a rough start, Russ went on to accumulate a list of achievements in the martial arts world including the title of British National Karate Champion in 1984 and 1985, plus a listing in the Guinness Book of Records in 2000 for being the youngest 5th Dan in his chosen style at the age of 34.
Russ has also worked as a bodyguard for the rich and famous, as well as working in stunt teams with greats such as Jet Lee and Jackie Chan.
Russ, 49, who emigrated to Cooroy in 2003 and now runs the Workout Shed gym and Camp Black Recharge Retreat, can now add another honour to his list of achievements.
At the end of July, Russ will be flown to Tokyo where he will be officially inducted into the World Martial Arts Organisation Famous Faces hall of fame alongside the likes of Chuck Norris, Bill Wallace and Bruce Lee.
At the ceremony, Russ will push his fists into the concrete in what he describes as a lasting and well-earned memento of his martial arts career and achievements.
“As a local personal trainer and international trainer I feel truly humbled to be listed amongst some of the world’s greats,” Russ said.
“I have immense respect for people who have remained true to their martial art roots and I am most pleased to be recognised for it.”
