Jake Carnegie: Forest Hill Dynamic Martial Arts student’s inspiring karate journey

A Mitcham teenager has found his mojo at a martial arts studio in Melbourne’s east, and is on track to get his first belt in record time. Check him out in action.

A Mitcham teenager has found his calling with martial arts and is punching and kicking his way to obtaining his first belt in record time.

Jake Carnegie, 17, joined Forest Hill’s Dynamic Martial Arts studio two months ago, after watching his cousin in action.

Spurred on by grandmother Carol and father Adam, the Burwood East Special Development School student got an outfit off eBay and started participating in classes.

He’s now truly living and breathing the sport, training for up to an hour seven days a week.

After earning several stripes, Jake’s set to earn his blue belt early next month — the fastest any student has achieved the grading in the studio’s history.

Owner Chris Malloy said Jake, who has Down syndrome, was one of the most passionate and dedicated students he’d come across in more than two decades teaching martial arts.

“It’s hard to find someone so committed … I don’t see anyone with the dedication Jake has, he’s here more than me,” Mr Malloy said.

“He came out and tried a class, then another class, and he’s here seven days a week now.

“He loves it and we love having him.”

Carol said she had been blown away by the impact the sport was having on her grandson’s life.

“Every time I see him, he achieves something stronger … you can truly never underestimate him,” she said.

“He knows what he wants to do and he puts his whole heart into it.

“The other kids have accepted him for his disability and it’s been nice to see them embrace someone that’s a little bit different.”

Father Adam said when his son wasn’t training, he enjoyed watching WWE fights on TV.

“The first thing he does in the morning is ask when are we going to karate … as soon as it finishes he’s upset because he wants to do more,” Adam said.

“It’s really good seeing him do something that he loves to do … and we’ll see how far he can take it.”