Ever since his introduction to judo, Mark Whalley has envisioned tying a black belt around his waist.
The milestone day is drawing nearer.
Whalley, a 17-year-old from the Hart Judo Academy, will test for the belt in June.
"I've been waiting for that moment my entire life, pretty much -- training hard for it," said Whalley, a ninth-year judoka. "It's going to mean a lot. A lot of work and dedication went into it. I just love the sport so much."
A significant part of Whalley's test will involve kata, or pre-arranged attack and defence strategies. He spends most of his time actually fighting, so he'll have to make sure his kata techniques are well-rehearsed before he goes in front of the judges.
Bruce Kamstra, head instructor at the HJA, is proud of the progress Whalley has made over the years and is looking forward to seeing another one of his students reach black belt status.
"He's a joy to work with, really," Kamstra said. "He's always eager to help and please and he works hard -- that's the base of the club. His skill set could get better but it's a long road. Judo has so many skills you need to develop. It's a pretty complicated sport."
Kamstra said Whalley's biggest attribute is his spirit.
"He doesn't give up -- he's got a lot of heart when he fights," Kamstra said. "He doesn't normally get intimidated, although I would say his mental game is a little sketchy at times. But that's common for a kid, or any athlete as you're developing."
Today, Whalley will have the chance to sharpen all of his tools -- mental and physical -- when he steps onto the mat at the Civic Centre for the annual Prince George Open tournament. He's entered in the U-20 under-66-kilogram class and will also compete in the senior men's blue to black division. He'll be looking to rebound from a somewhat disappointing performance at last weekend's Edmonton International.
"It was good competition and I was just sort of distracted -- it was just a bad day for me," he said. "It happens. I'm prepared for this weekend."
The first bouts will start at 9 a.m.
