The 2015 Asian championships runner-up in Kata, Mo Sheung Grace Lau, has just completed five consecutive podiums in Karate 1, inflicting the first two defeats of her career to two-time World champion Kiyou Shimizu.
Today, at the 15th Asian championships in Aman (July 13th-15th), the Hong-Kong’s Kata woman will try to get the hat trick. For now, she talks about Kata, her practice, her personal tastes...
By Ludovic Mauchien
Pictures: K-Photos
1st in Salzburg and Rabat, 2nd in Dubai, 3rd in Paris and Rotterdam. Hong-Kong’s Mo Sheung Grace Lau (1,52 m, 46,5 kg) is in a state of... grace approaching the 15th Asian Championships (in Aman from July 13rd to 15th). She performs her Katas like never before.
At 26, she has 13 podiums, including 3 wins in Karate 1 and is in the Kata World Top 5. But, beyond the pure athletic side, Grace Lau considers Kata as a mode of expression of her Karate, which she likes varied by practicing different styles.
Why Kata ?
Because I can express my own style through my Kata, everybody performs the same Kata but how can you attract people by your performance, how can you create your own style, that’s the most interesting.
What is your favourite one ?
Tomari Bassai is a very special Kata for me because that is my first Ko ryu Kata performed in competition. I used to perform Shito ryu style but I love Ko ryu style above all ! From every single movement, you can feel the real fight.
And your favourite move ?
Kansetsu Geri in Tomari Bassai and Annan.
Do you prefer more dynamic or more technical Katas ?
For competition, I prefer dynamic ones.
How do you choose your Kata in competition ?
It’s based on my draw.
Have you thought of working Shotokan Katas for your program ?
No, I haven’t. But I am used to do Goju ryu Katas, Ryuei ryu Katas, Shito ryu Katas and Ko ryu Katas.
Who is your most dangerous opponent ? Yourself ?
Definitely, as a Kata player, you just need to perform your Kata well, but sometimes, you cannot enjoy the competition, you put yourself too much under pressure.
“MY MORNING RITUALS ? CHECK MY INSTAGRAM”
Which one do you prefer to match : Sanchez Jaime or Shimizu ?
Both. Both of them are the most outstanding athletes in the world. I had learnt a lot every time when I played against them.
Describe us your training…
I train from Monday to Friday, two sessions a day. It’s around 5 hours of training each day. We have different program for different season.
Do you often go training to Japan ?
It just depends on the schedule, we also have been in Croatia for the training camp (at the beginning of July).
Who are your models, your inspirations ?
Rika Usami is the best role model to me. She has the best technique, she has the best result, she’s still the best Kata performer in the world but she is very humble and friendly. She is very hard working, and always shares her experience with us.
If you have an advice to give to a teenager who dreams to be a champion, what would it be ?
You have to believe in yourself and walk on the right path with good attitude. Always be humble, open minded and acceptable.
What do you like to do besides Karate ?
Aerial hoop is my second interest now.
What are your morning rituals ?
Check my Instagram.
