Born: 1946
Karyn Turner (born 1946) is an American martial arts expert who has made a significant impact on the world of martial arts and kickboxing. Throughout her career, Turner has been known by several titles, including The Queen of Kata, First Lady of Kung Fu, and The Mother of U.S. Kickboxing.
Turner’s journey in martial arts began when she started training in tae kwon do at the age of 19. However, she soon switched to kung fu, specifically the wun hop kune do technique taught by Al and Malia Dacascos. With her dedication and talent, she quickly rose through the ranks and started competing in official events in 1975.
In 1976, Turner accomplished a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first woman to take a double victory in both fighting (kumite) and form (kata) in the International Women’s Karate Championship. Her exceptional skills and determination earned her the title of the most outstanding woman in the history of martial arts by Black Belt Magazine in 1978.
Not content with her previous achievements, Turner continued to break barriers and defy expectations. She became the first woman to enter men’s divisions at the World Championships in both kata and weapons (steel whip). Remarkably, she also became the World Champion in the men’s division for both categories.
During the peak of her career in 1977, Turner participated in an impressive 23 tournaments and emerged victorious in three divisions, including men’s weapons kata. Her dominance and skill in the sport were unparalleled, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest martial artists in history.
In recognition of her accomplishments, Turner’s contributions to martial arts were honored in various ways. In 1990, she became the first woman in history to be nominated into the Black Belt Hall of Fame as Competitor of the Year. Additionally, Black Belt Magazine selected her as their Woman of the Year in the same year.
In 2009, Turner was further celebrated for her immense influence and achievements when she was inducted into the Martial Arts History Museum’s Hall of Fame. This honor was a testament to her enduring impact on the martial arts community.
Outside of her impressive competitive career, Turner ventured into promoting martial arts events. In 1979, she founded her own promotional firm, Superfights, Inc., and became its president. She also served on the executive board of the Professional Karate Association (PKA).
As a promoter, Turner played a crucial role in bringing mixed martial arts to cable television. In 1982, she successfully promoted kickboxing’s first pay-per-view event, Superfights, on ESPN. That same year, she secured kickboxing’s first major sponsor, the Adolph Coors Brewing Company, showcasing her innovation and business acumen.
However, Turner’s entrepreneurial spirit pushed her even further. Frustrated with the small percentage of revenue shared with promoters and fighters, she led a revolt by ex-PKA promoters. Together, they established a new association, known as the International Sport Karate Association, in 1985. Turner was appointed as the association’s first Commissioner, solidifying her role as a key figure in the sport.
In 1991, Turner retired from active promotion but continued to leave her mark on the martial arts world. She co-authored the book Secrets of Championship Karate with Mark Van Schuyver, sharing her knowledge and expertise with a wider audience.
Karyn Turner’s pioneering spirit, talent, and dedication have made her an icon in the martial arts community. Her remarkable achievements and contributions have paved the way for future generations of female martial artists, making her an influential figure in women’s history. Karyn Turner’s legacy as a martial arts legend continues to inspire and empower individuals worldwide.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame as Competitor of the Year in 1990.
– Selected as Woman of the Year by Black Belt Magazine in 1990.
– Inducted into the Martial Arts History Museum’s Hall of Fame in 2009.