Born: 1981 (Honolulu, Hawaii)
Biography:
Elisa Au, born on May 29, 1981, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an American martial arts instructor and karate practitioner. From a young age, Elisa showed great potential in the field of karate, becoming a prominent figure in the sport over the years.
Elisa’s journey in martial arts began at the tender age of five when her parents, Gary and Jane Au, enrolled her in karate lessons under the guidance of esteemed master Chuzo Kotaka, known for his expertise in the shitō-ryū karate style. Demonstrating exceptional talent and a strong work ethic, Elisa quickly rose through the ranks and proved her determination on the competitive stage.
In 1990, at only nine years old, Elisa made her mark in the karate world by participating in her first major tournament, the AAU/United States National Karate Championships in New Orleans, Louisiana. Despite her age and relative inexperience, Elisa’s skill and dedication shone through as she won gold, silver, and bronze medals in different categories. This early success served as a catalyst for her future accomplishments.
The following year, in 1991, Elisa achieved a significant milestone by earning her black belt under the tutelage of Chuzo Kotaka and his International Karate Federation. This achievement solidified her position as a promising young talent in karate. Moreover, it instilled in her the desire to pass on her knowledge and skills to others, leading her to become a karate instructor at a young age.
During her teenage years in Hawaii, Elisa started teaching after-school karate programs. Her dedication and talent as an instructor were evident, as many of her students went on to become national champions themselves. She played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of aspiring martial artists, including one who would go on to achieve two junior world championships.
In addition to her contributions as an instructor, Elisa exemplified exceptional versatility by participating in multiple sports. Alongside her rigorous karate schedule, she engaged in figure skating, gymnastics, canoe paddling, and track and field. This involvement in various disciplines not only showcased her athleticism but also highlighted her relentless pursuit of excellence in all areas of her life.
Elisa attended the prestigious Punahou School, an elite college preparatory academy in Hawaii. Throughout her high school years, she not only excelled in her athletic endeavors but also maintained honor roll status, demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence. She truly embodied the ideal of a well-rounded student-athlete.
In 2003, Elisa graduated from the University of Hawaii, where she pursued a degree in civil engineering. Her academic achievements complemented her success in the world of karate, showcasing her ability to balance her passion for martial arts with her commitment to education.
Despite her many accomplishments, Elisa Au’s journey in karate did not end with her college graduation. She continued to compete at national and international levels, representing the United States with honor and grace. Alongside her competitive endeavors, Elisa also undertook the role of a global karate ambassador by conducting seminars around the world. Her teachings have spanned countries like Japan, Canada, Australia, and the United States, where she shared her training methods, ideas, and insights on how to succeed in karate competition.
Furthermore, Elisa is known for her six-set DVD series entitled SECRETS of Championship Karate, where she imparts her extensive knowledge to aspiring practitioners. This landmark contribution has allowed her to extend her mentorship beyond the confines of the training mat, inspiring countless individuals who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Awards:
3 x WKF World Champion
2010 WKF Bronze Medalist, first team kumite medal for USA
2010 World Combat Games Silver Medalist
2008 WKF Silver Medalist
2004 WKF Champion, 2 individual Gold medals
2002 WKF Champion
2002 World Cup Champion
4-Time Pan Am Champion
Two-Time WKC World Champion
Two-Time WKO World Champion
18-Time United States of America National Karate Federation (USANKF) Champion
9-Time Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Champion