Meet Bryan Adkins. Bryan has lived in Kamloops for 25 years! This dude is all about martial arts, hiking, and anything athletic in the Loops.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
Born and raised in Kamloops - 25 years in this beautiful city!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Got to say my father. He has done so much for me personally, our family and our community. He's the best coach I've had and is my number one role model. I aspire to walk those same steps he has shown me.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Tiger Ramen! Great cooks and staff, warm atmosphere and the best noodles in town. Can't go wrong eating there!
Describe yourself in one word.
Focused.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
For me, it would be Japan. In general, Asia is considered to be the starting place of martial arts - I would love to study and compete there. As well, being half Japanese, I would love to get connected to my roots and learn more about the culture.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Martial Arts - Yoga - Running/Hiking. To be honest, I can get really passionate about most physical activities and like to take on new things. With all the beautiful nature around Kamloops, I try my best to get outside as much as possible!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Intramural floor hockey was a big deal at my high school - I remember suiting up as the goalie for an important game. The opposing team shot from half court, the ball bounced off the back wall, then off the back of my head and into the net!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Mark Hermiston was one of two world champions my father had coached in the past. When I decided to take my martial arts journey to the next level and start to compete, I didn't have the appropriate sparring partners to work with. Luckily, Mark took me under his wing and provided all the work I needed. More importantly, his positivity and belief in myself showed me that I could conquer all the tasks I had in front of me. He is a huge reason for my success inside and outside the ring.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favourite childhood memories definitely come from time spent with family and friends. Outdoor adventures, sports tournaments, family get-togethers out at Shuswap Lake.. It's hard to pin down one, in particular, I just know I was very lucky to have a diverse and healthy upbringing.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am currently a coach at the White Crane Martial Arts gym, as well as the youth instructor. I have recently worked with the Kamloops Boys & Girls Club for self-defence and martial arts instruction. In the past, I have worked at the Kamloops Food Bank.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would love to see people treat others the way they want to be treated. Instil more self-love within themselves so then they can offer more of that to others. Empower themselves and seek inner strength - from there, kindness becomes easy. I believe we are all connected on some level. Let's treat all of our brothers and sisters on earth respectfully and lovingly.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
On one of the many Kamloops hiking trails or down by the river banks!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
Anything that brings the Kamloops community together in a healthy way. So we can share positive thoughts, ideas and make real change for the better.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
All of the amazing outdoor activities and landscapes! This area has so much to offer. We have a growing community and lots of positive people around which is a bonus!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
• Win a World Title in either Boxing, Kickboxing or MMA...Or all of them!
•Travel and explore this wonderful world as much as possible.
•Have a gym the supports all people looking for a path of health through martial arts - and as well set up programs to help troubled youth.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
Mental health is something I care about deeply - and want to help people within the future.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Business Facebook page is under "White Crane Martial Arts."
Buisness Instagram is @wclrkamloops
Personal Facebook is under "Bryan Hiroshi."
Personal Instagram is @bryhiro
What is the name of your business/organization?
White Crane Martial Arts - Lions Roar Competitive - WCLR Kamloops.
Why did you get into/start this business?
My father was the founder of the White Crane Martial Arts gym in Kamloops and has been operating for more than 25 years in the city. It's been a family business and my passion in life.
What is the goal of your business?
To give people the opportunity to become the best versions of themselves through the journey of martial arts - to bring health and structure to peoples lives - give them goals and opportunities to reach their dreams.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Shedding the ego and finding my authentic self - while also cultivating self-love for who I really am.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Act more."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Push your boundaries - do things that make you uncomfortable. Believe in your self 100% and see your self-worth!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
The Dalai Lama.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It keeps more money in the local community and in general supports the local businesses, instead of giving money to big corporations.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
•Winning AA Provincial Championships for high school Sr. Soccer (Team of the year in Kamloops).
•Invited to Team BC Provincial Boxing camp as a competitor.
•Selected to be a member of the Team BC Boxing staff for the 2019 National Championships.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
The whole WCLR team. Coaches, teammates, everyone! These guys are my family!
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Ken Kozuki
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you for allowing me to share bit about myself and WCLR team!
Lots of love to the In Focus crew and the Kamloops community!
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
