Fort Irwin teen earns second-degree black belt

Aiden Hitchcock prepares to break a board with his foot while testing for a second-degree black belt in karate at Fort Irwin’s STARZ Academy building May 16.

In the world of karate, Aiden Hitchcock has achieved a major milestone.

The Fort Irwin Middle School eighth-grader attained the rank of second-degree black belt here May 16.

Aiden Hitchcock demonstrates a karate form while testing for a second-degree black belt at Fort Irwin’s STARZ Academy building May 16.

“I was nervous,” he said.  “But I pretty much just drained my mind and thought through all the forms and what was next.”

Hitchcock, the son of Maj. Gavin Hitchcock of MEDDAC and Linda Hitchcock, has been studying karate for about six years, beginning while his family was stationed in Texas and continuing his studies through several PCS moves.  He earned a first-degree black belt in Seattle in 2009.

“I enjoy the motivation,” he said.  “(Karate) gets me pumped up and excited.  It teaches you discipline and it’s a great way to exercise.”

To prepare for the second-degree black belt testing, which lasted about an hour and included the challenge of breaking boards with his hands and feet, Hitchcock practiced several extra hours each week.  Sharnae Weist, Hitchcock’s instructor at Fort Irwin, said he exemplifies the qualities a black belt should have.

“He’s very disciplined, very humble,” Weist said.  “Being 14 years old and dedicated enough to stick with it through the military lifestyle and moving around is a big accomplishment.  Most people don’t have to keep starting over with a new instructor.  He’s a first-rate kid.”

Hitchcock’s mother said she was confident he could make it to the next step in karate.

“Going through the testing was hair-raising for me, but he did a great job,” she said.  “I get nervous, but he practiced enough, so I knew he had it in him.”