CINCINNATI — For many athletes, representing Team USA is the ultimate goal. Later this month, five athletes from Buckner Martial Arts will have the opportunity to do just that when they compete at the World Karate Championships in Romania.

Among them is Abi Kasberg, who first joined Buckner Martial Arts through its fitness and boxing classes before deciding to challenge herself by trying karate. What started as a new hobby quickly turned into a passion that ultimately earned her a spot on Team USA.

“I’ve never competed on the international stage in this sport or in any other sport,” Kasberg said. “So this is a very new opportunity for me.”

Now, she is preparing to compete alongside four teammates at one of the sport’s biggest international competitions.

While stepping onto the mat can be intimidating, Kasberg said success comes from blocking out distractions and staying focused.

“That requires, to a certain extent, blocking out all the distractions surrounding me,” she said. “It is still nerve-wracking to be out on the tatami during competition.”

Instructor Nader Azzouzi said months of preparation have positioned the athletes for the next phase of training.

“The physical work is mostly done,” Azzouzi said. “Now it’s about strategy and preparing for every possible situation.”

Training extends well beyond the dojo, according to Team USA member Ruby Culligan.

“You have to put your time in it and definitely your mind, because if you don’t have the right mindset, you won’t have the right techniques,” Culligan said.

Teammate Ishan Reddy said the commitment requires daily practice.

“I come in training for a couple hours almost every single day of the week,” Redby said. “And it’s not just that. It’s also outside the dojo. Sometimes that time adds up, but I think it’s worth it.”

Although Kasberg hopes to bring home a gold medal, she said simply representing Team USA is already a dream come true. After discovering karate later than many competitors, she hopes her journey proves it’s never too late to try something new.

“Just follow my passion and amazing things and opportunities can come out of it,” she said.

More than $12,000 has been raised through community donations and fundraising efforts to help cover the athletes’ travel expenses to Romania.

The World Karate Championships will take place July 22-26 in Romania.

To donate, click here.