Anderson trains at Ramtown Karate, where she works closely with coaches and teammates who contribute to her development. She credited her training environment for helping prepare her for high-level competition. Photo courtesy of Ramtown Karate

DIXON, CA (MPG) — Anna Anderson of Ramtown Karate returned from the Karate U.S. Open in Fort Worth, Texas with a gold medal and a place among the top competitors in her division, marking a milestone in her competitive career.

Anderson competed against athletes from around the world at the event, one of the largest international karate tournaments in the United States. She said her mindset entering the competition differed from previous experiences.

“I was really excited to be there,” said Anderson. “In the past, I’m normally really nervous, but this time I didn’t have that. I was just excited to compete.”

That confidence carried her through the 18-to-20 division, where she captured first place. Anderson said her approach that day was clear from the start.

“I just woke up that morning, and I knew I wasn’t losing,” she said.

During the tournament, Anderson recorded two matches in which she did not allow a single point, relying on preparation and adherence to her strategy.

“We had a game plan, I listened to my coach,” she said. “I just felt like I wasn’t going to lose. I had a good mindset that day.”

In addition to her division title, Anderson competed in the 18-to-34 category, facing older, more experienced opponents. She described the transition as challenging but manageable.

“Definitely 18-to-34 is different from 18-to-20,” said Anderson. “I think it’s a little intimidating at first, but once I saw who I was competing with, I felt I belonged there. I didn’t feel scared or nervous at all. I just wanted to prove myself.”

Although she said she did not achieve the results she had hoped for in that division, Anderson said the experience demonstrated her ability to compete at a higher level.

Anna Anderson of Ramtown Karate returned from the Karate U.S. Open in Fort Worth, Texas with a gold medal and a place among the top competitors in her division, marking a milestone in her competitive career. Photo courtesy of Ramtown Karate

Her performance at the U.S. Open comes alongside another achievement: earning spots on both the USA Olympic-level 18-to-34 Women’s Team and the U21 USA Team. Anderson said the accomplishment fulfills a long-standing goal.

“It’s just a really big achievement and goal,” she said. “Ever since I found out about the U.S. team, it’s been a goal. So, to say the first time I tried out, I got it? That’s a big accomplishment.”

Anderson trains at Ramtown Karate, where she works closely with coaches and teammates who contribute to her development. She credited her training environment for helping prepare her for high-level competition.

“I have coaches that care about me and teammates that give up their time and weekends to train with me,” she said. “My other two teammates, Andrew Pisany and Lazer Ingram, are great sparring partners, always inspiring me.”

Chief instructor Jim Ernest said Anderson’s success reflects both her individual effort and the program’s history of producing high-level competitors.

“It’s really exciting, especially since it’s a continuation,” said Ernest, “She is the youngest person ever to be on the USA Olympic Karate Team. Now she’s got to hold on to that position.”

Ernest said Anderson’s training regimen is rigorous, often involving multiple sessions each week, and includes sparring with high-level fighters.

Anderson said competing internationally has reinforced the importance of teamwork in what is often viewed as an individual sport.

“I can’t do everything by myself,” said Anderson. “I have a team supporting me that wants to help me.”

Looking ahead, Anderson is preparing for the Pan American Championship in Brazil. She said her goals include both performance and experience.

“My goal is to medal and just enjoy the experience,” said Anderson. “How often can you say you get to go to Brazil to compete in a sport you love?”

For younger athletes in Dixon and Vacaville, Anderson said her path shows that success in competitive karate is possible even for those who begin later.

“It’s okay if you start late, you can still do it,” said Anderson. “I started competing around two and a half years ago. You have to put in a lot of time and effort, but it’s worth it.”