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© 2008 Krav Maga of Oregon |
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Instructor Colton Lira 1st Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do—WTF / Kukkiwon Blue belt Krav Maga Email: colton@kravmagaor.com Colton Kirshner-lira is 19 years old and a martial arts enthusiast. He began his training in Tae Kwon Do at Master Lee’s Orient Tae Kwon Do College; although, most of his tutelage was under Kirsten Zulyevic. After a four year break, Colton continued his training in Tae Kwon Do at Krav Maga of Oregon.
At the age of fourteen, Colton transitioned to training in Krav Maga after obtaining his black belt in Tae Kwon Do. While attending a seminar that Darren Levine was teaching, he impressed the US Chief Instructor who told Kirsten and Oneness he needed to attend the instructors phase training. When Darren was told that Colton was only 14 years old, he was shocked. “Colton has always been very mature, responsible and an excellent leader but now he is growing into one of the best instructors I have known in martial arts. He is passionate about teaching and inspires his students to train. He motivates them and gives them the skills necessary to succeed. Few instructors can do that, especially at such a young age.”—Kirsten Zulyevic
Due to his young age it was decided that he should wait until he was 16, however finishing school and starting college was a priority and Krav Maga phase training would have to wait. During this time Colton began training in the Bas Rutten’s Mixed Martial Arts System. All in a quest to be a more rounded instructor and student.
At his current age, Colton trains consistently, is an assistant Krav Maga instructor, and is dedicated to martial arts as much as he ever was, which in itself, is remarkable. While he is still young, examination reveals that he is a talented and experienced martial artist well beyond his years. Colton loves teaching martial arts, training, and is very grateful for all the support from his family, classmates, and instructors than have made it possible for him to pursue his passion. |
