Local teenager quickly climbing international karate ranks

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - In just four short years, a student from Vista Ridge High School has elevated his karate skills from beginner to World Champion in the International Combat Organisation (ICO) World circuit.

Jared Garcia started Karate when he was 12. Standing around five feet and two inches tall, it became apparent that Garcia's flexibility and kicks made up for his shorter stature.

"He started at a really young belt level," said Jared's mom and coach, Erika Garcia. "He started right out of white."

Now 16 and standing almost six feet tall, Garcia has become a force in the ICO. Last year, he won the 14-17-year-old World Championship in Wales, competing against kids two years his senior from all weight classes.

The owner of Team Army, a professional martial arts team sponsored by the U.S. Army, was at the championship watching the competition. Less than 10 minutes after Jared's victory, he paid Jared a visit and made him a part of the team.

Before winning his championship, Jared first achieved his black belt with a surprise student in his testing class.

"We actually got it at the same time. We got to test together," Erika, also a black belt, said.

"I wasn't really expecting it in that moment," Jared said. "I really loved having her in the same test."

This fall, Garcia will return to defend his title in France. His family started a GoFundMe to help pay for his travel.