Tristan (born December 7, 2007) and Alex (born December 11, 2007) grew up miles apart but shared the same passion and dream — to represent the United States on the world karate stage.
Tristan began his martial arts journey in Kitsap County, Washington, training in Hayashi-Ha Shito Ryu Karate at UKO under Sensei Hannah from the age of seven. A year later, he began competing, showing both talent and determination early on. His path eventually led him to San Diego, where he joined the Ryuei Ryu Poway Dojo to continue his training.
Alex started karate at the Ryuei Ryu Poway Dojo when he was seven years old. By fourteen, he was actively competing, driven by the goal of one day standing on the world stage representing his country.
When Tristan first arrived at the Poway dojo, he and Alex instantly connected. They quickly became friends, teammates, and friendly rivals — constantly inspiring and pushing each other to grow stronger. Whether training side by side or facing off in competition, they shared mutual respect and pride in one another’s success.
This year, both athletes have achieved the dream they’ve worked toward for so long:
🥋 Tristan earned his place on Team USA to compete at the 2025 junior Pan-American Championships in Asunción, Paraguay.
🥋 Alex was selected as the #1 seeded athlete in the AAU Karate Circuit, representing Team USA at the 2025 WUKF World Championships in Malmö, Sweden.
Congratulations to Tristan and Alex — two remarkable athletes whose hard work, friendship, and perseverance have taken them to the world stage.
Two Paths, One Dream: Tristan and Alex Representing Team USA
RYUKYU JAPAN KARATE-DO
RESPECT | DISCIPLINE | PHYSICAL FITNESS | TEAMWORK | LEADERSHIP
TRISTAN BRIDGEFORD
12245 Poway Road, Unit B Poway CA 92064, USA | 1-858-883-4156 | contact@ryukyujapankarate.com