Imagine a 72-year-old man, after a 50-year hiatus, fearlessly stepping back onto the karate mat. This isn't just a story of physical prowess; it's a testament to the enduring power of passion and the unwavering spirit of Clifford Mendez.
After half a century away from the discipline, Mendez, a resident of Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago, has resolutely recommitted himself to karate, with his sights firmly set on achieving a black belt. This remarkable journey reached a significant milestone on December 20th when he was awarded his brown belt and certificate by the Shotokan Karate do International Federation (SKIF TT), a karate organization with deep roots in Japan.
This achievement is a remarkable feat, considering Mendez's karate journey began in his teens, paused at the age of 22, and courageously restarted at 72. He reflects on this journey, stating, "This is 50 years in the making. I have never, not one year, thought about not starting back." He adds, "Sometimes, as you get older, you wish you had done this or that. That is my wish, and I am doing it right now."
Now training alongside black belts, Mendez has entered a "totally different category." His return to training began just over four months prior. Initially, he explored other organizations, but distance and other factors proved challenging. Undeterred, he sought out instructors willing to train him at home several times a week, determined to "bring him up to scratch."
This search led him to Sensei Ian Sammy, the chief instructor and president of SKIF TT, who arranged for trainers to conduct home training sessions. Mendez recalls, "When I started training, I felt like quitting right away. It was tougher than I thought, and the trainer was not sparing anything. I told him not to spare anything and give me what he had. I don't want to get a belt for getting a belt because of my age. I want to know that I earned it, and that I am very much capable."
After approximately four months of intensive home training, Mendez transitioned to the La Joya dojo, where he immediately felt welcomed and at ease. He realized he was "up to standard" and on par with his peers. Soon after, he qualified for the brown belt examination on December 17th, which he successfully passed.
But here's where it gets controversial... Mendez's life extends far beyond the dojo. He is a father of ten and has a rich background in education and community service. He studied print technology at George Brown College in Canada, served on the John Donaldson College advisory board (now the University of TT), and was previously PRO of the Caribbean Students Association. Karate also runs in his family, with his sister, Claudia Mendez, earning her own brown belt.
Although he considered restarting karate during the pandemic, concerns about COVID-19 delayed his return. However, this year, he committed fully. "I trained three days a week, sometimes four, and I pushed through my pains and aches. Sensei (Sammy) always tells me to take it easy, to take it at my own speed," he says. "The motivation and push come from my sensei, his words. He says it so philosophically that I have no choice but to keep on track. I know I will get my black belt because I have the support, and SKIF is family-oriented. The members look out for one another."
Training alongside much younger peers can be mentally challenging, Mendez acknowledges. "You just have to pass that mental thinking and jump into it. Just do it," he advises.
Mendez also emphasizes that karate training should never be used to provoke aggression, recalling how he often walked away from confrontations in his youth. Back then, as a purple belt, he even competed against black belts in tournaments. His karate journey began when he was about 18 years old.
SKIF TT's website highlights that the organization welcomes individuals from 4 to 94 years old. Sensei Sammy notes that Mendez is among its oldest members, with another student, aged 62, preparing for a black belt next year. He emphasizes that Mendez's determination is exceptional, as many people believe karate is exclusively for the young.
And this is the part most people miss... Sammy explains that while karate was historically designed for adults, programs have evolved to include children, with training adapted to different ages and abilities. Beyond physical fitness, the organization stresses self-protection, discipline, and respect. Sammy states, "Mr. Mendez’s goal is to get to a black belt, and I told him we will take him there. We have to understand that as we get older, we have different limitations. He has two more levels of brown belt, which he can earn within a year. After brown is the black."
Sammy adds that students see Mendez as a mentor, drawing inspiration from his work ethic and unwavering determination, proving that it is never too late to reignite a lifelong passion and finish what was started decades ago.
What are your thoughts on Mendez's inspiring journey? Do you believe age is a barrier to pursuing your passions? Share your opinions in the comments below!
