Martial Arts Students to Break Boards in Classmate's Memory

Students from ATA Martial Arts of Southern New Hampshire are planning a local fundraiser to raise money for the New Hampshire Animal Rescue League in memory of their classmate Joshua Savyon.

Joshua was the young boy involved in the tragic shooting at the Manchester YWCA last summer.

“We want to continue to remember, Joshua, and this is a perfect way to do that,” said co-owner and senior instructor Emily Seymour. “Joshua loved the Animal Rescue League.”

The Board Break-a-Thon, called “Dollars for Doggies” will feature board breakers young and old as each attempts to break as many boards as they can in one minute. Some adult students have even pledged to attempt to break up to 50 boards during their 60-second time slot.

“We can't say enough how positively ATA influenced Joshua's life and how much they have been like a second family to us since his loss,” said Joshua’s mother, Becky Ranes. "It means so much to us that ATA is doing Dollars for Doggies in memory of Joshua to benefit the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire.”

Members of the community are welcome to watch the event Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. and Feb. 22 at noon at the Bedford ATA school, located at 292 Rte 101.

At the ATA Winter Championship Tournament March 1, at the Radisson Hotel Ballroom, competitors and spectators will also have the opportunity to break a pine board for a $2 donation. In addition, a portion of the proceeds at the gate will be donated to the Animal Rescue League as part of the Dollars for Doggies effort.

If you would like to donate or sponsor a student for this event, more information is available on the school’s website at iKickATA.com.

Located in Bedford, ATA Martial Arts of Southern New Hampshire teaches life skills through martial arts to help children succeed. Classes are available for everyone ages 3 and above, including special abilities, fitness and cardio kickboxing. Visit iKickATA.com for more details.