Gaza man with disabilities conquers karate

Source:-Newzee

Youssef Abu Amira, a Palestinian law school graduate, never let his disabilities hold him back. Born without legs and with only partially developed arms, he has taken up a new challenge - karate.

The 24-year-old orange belt showed his stick-fighting skills as he trained with his coach at Gaza's Al-Mashtal Club for Martial Arts.

"I wanted to do karate so I can defend myself, and I dream of taking part in international championships," Abu Amira said.

His mastery of the stick helps him make up for his missing limbs, and he has learned how to deliver strong punches, and fend off attacks with his body and arms.

Coach Hassan Al-Raai said his pupil showed particular determination.

"I was surprised that Youssef has different skills and can do things better than people with fewer disabilities could do," Al-Raai said.

A resident of Gaza's Beach refugee camp, Abu Amira travels along city streets in a motorized mobility scooter. He graduated from the Islamic University of Gaza's College of Sharia and Law last year.