Bess Mänty Success Story

Bess Mänty an athlete.

A brief introduction to yourself?
My name is Bess Mänty and I am a National kata team Athlete from Finland. I am 21 years old and currently studying Business in Latvia. 

How did you develop your fondness for karate?
Karate has always been a big part of my family even before I started doing it. My parents were already practicing it before me and so was my big sister who also at the time was competing and I simply wanted to be just like her: fierce, cool, and above all successful.

What drew you to Karate out of all other sports?
Karate is a sport where you can always be better. There is always something to improve and that’s why it is so interesting.

At what age did you start learning karate?
At the age of 10.

What is your style and what rank do you currently hold in karate?
I am practicing shito-Ryu and I have a brown belt.

What was the highest prize you won?
I am the National Champion. I have also had some success internationally.

What do you like more Kata or Kumite?
Kata.

Do you have a favorite Sensei?
No. I respect all the sensei equally who I have ever worked with.

How did you get to this position and how was your journey being in this sport?
Shortly, with the help of my parents. Their support has been irreplaceable. 

Do you take karate as your profession or is it just a hobby?
I would love to have it as a profession but currently, it is not possible for me. For me, karate has never really been just a hobby. It is a lifestyle. 

Who’s been an inspiration for you throughout your sports journey?
I would say the top athletes in the WKF. If I ever feel unmotivated, I just look up some competition videos of them and head to the dojo afterward.

What challenges did you come across on getting where you are at today?

You can share any injury story as well.
I have been lucky for not having any serious injuries. 

What motivates you the most about your profession as an athlete?
Competitions. I love to compete and the excitement it brings. I love to set goals and work towards them.

What are your strengths as both an athlete and as a person?
I am very independent.

Do you have something you want everyone to learn?
Everyone should learn how to receive bad/harsh feedback. This is what karate in Eastern countries teach very well. 

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