Jamaican Dominique Jones living her dream as a karateka in Canada

By Ravendra Madholall

Dominque Jones striving to be at the top of her game

At 23, Jamaican Dominique Jones already has an undying passion for the sport of karate and in the next five years, she plans to make a big entrance and dominate the international arena.
She took up the sport at age 12 and is currently ranked Nidan, Second Dan. Now, she is even more motivated to climb higher.
In an interview with Guyana Times International, Jones reflected on the highs and lows of her career, during which she has executed great style and physicality, two essential components for the sport.

Balancing education and karate
Currently pursuing studies in Environmental Management at Ryerson University in Toronto, Jones is cognizant of the need to strike a balance between her educational goals and her karate aspirations.
“Studying and being a Karate fighter [is] certainly enjoyable,” she said, adding that “I have been a karateka since 2001, learning and growing in the martial art of Shotokan karate, in which I am currently ranked as a Nidan (2nd Dan) black belt; during the past two years, I have been studying (at Ryerson University) and living in Toronto, whilst having the opportunity of continuing karate by learning and training under the tutelage of Master Frank Woon-a-Tai.”
Guyanese Frank Woon-a-Tai is as world-rated fighter currently ranked as Tenth Dan and Jones is convinced he has all the right facilities and guidance to make her a phenomenal karateka in the near future.

Hopes for international impact
Although she does not yet have a strong presence on the international stage, the young Canadian-based Jamaican is sure that she can quickly rise to a level of great satisfaction.
“Despite not…attending numerous tournaments, I have remained relatively successful throughout the competitions I have participated in; however, from these competitions, I would consider the 2012 International Karate Daigaku (IKD) World Cup tournament, held in Toronto this past July the most memorable; not only was this the largest tournament I have participated in, I was also an integral part of the Toronto female team,” Jones revealed.
She is also inspired to become a tough and well-rounded fighter due to the high level of competition in Canada.
“The competition aspect of karate is not the most important in my estimation, rather my high level of dedication is a testament to not just the informative, qualitative and interesting aspects in the style of teaching, but more importantly, it is the family-like environment that keeps classes entertaining and appealing, promoting the desires to continue my life-long participation in karate,” Jones emphasised.

Family support

Dominque breaking boards at the opening of TKD Dojo; she is third right

Born in Kingston, Jamaica to Leighton and Karen, Dominique migrated to Canada two years ago, where she has been able to continue the sport she loves.
“I think in Canada, the level of competition is very high and the organisation is also very good which I think is also vital to the development of the sport,” Jones stated. She added, “when you fighting among good karatekas it gives you the enthusiasm and aspiration to take the sport more seriously and with my love for it, I am elated to be part of it for the rest of my life.”
Jones is very appreciative her mom, the person that spotted her talent and gave her all the encouragement to take up Karate. According to Dominique, words are indeed limited to express thanks to her Mom.
“I would say I am fortunate since my mom was the one who really encouraged me to take up the sport; she always believes that karate is a game that makes you think and self-defence is crucial to life; so I must commend my mother for the role she has played so far in my career,” Jones related.
Her younger brother Javier is also a passionate karateka. At the moment, he lives in Jamaica but Dominique feels he has the right temperament and skills to become a high-class karateka.
“My brother is also inspired and motivated to become a good fighter; we used to spar together because we feel that the more you involve in the game the better you get; the sport calls for a lot of toughness and determination as sparring partner we always making that point to each other; so hopefully we can be successful in the future,” Jones indicated.
With the IKD tournament set to be held in Venezuela next two years, Jones has already started preparations to represent Canada at the Championships. She firmly believes that hard work and commitment would have to be at the forefront to make a mark in that tournament.