My name is Abril Gramajo, and I am 19 years old. I was born on April 3rd, 2004, in Guatemala. I am a 3rd-degree black belt in American Kenpo. I started doing karate at 2 years old and also began competing in tournaments at that age, winning 1st place and falling in love with martial arts.
I started practicing American Kenpo because my dad owns a karate school in Guatemala, and my siblings also practice karate. I grew up seeing kicks and punches all the time; we are a martial artist family. I love sharing my passion with them because they are my motivation, always pushing me to be a better and stronger version of myself. I’m so grateful to have them in my life!
Over the years, I specialized in point fighting and kickboxing, and all the effort has been worth it. Now I am a national champion in Guatemala and have represented Guatemala in the national selection of kickboxing ASOKIGUA (WAKO GUATEMALA). I have competed internationally since 2007, with notable participation in the following countries: the United States, Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico, Portugal, and Turkey. I feel so lucky that the passion for this sport has given me the opportunity to know incredible places and friends.
Practicing karate since I was little has helped me to have more discipline, consistency, and passion in the sport and my life too. Martial arts have opened many doors for me, and I’m ready to keep working and fulfill my goals and dreams in this sport called martial arts! I believe practicing a sport is the biggest investment of your time because you push yourself to be a better you every time. It’s important to highlight that you are in a healthy environment where everybody around you is supportive and wants you to be successful.
I encourage all those strong women out there to keep following your dreams! Don’t give up; sometimes it’s not going to be easy but remember that you’re doing this for yourself and for the love you have with Martial Arts Kenpo!