Local martial artist welcomed to the Elite Athlete Wall

Emily Lambert, 18, has been recognized by the Airdrie Elite Athlete Recognition Program for her success in the discipline of Shotokan Karate by having her plaque added to the wall at Genesis Place.

Lambert has been an Airdrie resident for the past seven years, and has been ranked No. 1 in Alberta for four years.

She is also a member of the Canadian National team.

Emily coaches Karate and band and volunteers with the Airdrie Festival of Lights, the Mustard Seed and other local organizations.

“I can’t describe it at the moment, but it feels really amazing,” Lambert said after unveiling her plaque at a recognition ceremony at Genesis Place, Feb. 7.

“We are very proud of all our local athletes,” said Mayor Peter Brown in a press release.

“Emily’s accomplishments in her sport combined with the significant volunteer efforts in and around Airdrie make her very deserving of this recognition.”

Lambert said she plans to continue pursuing her sport and will be competing in the Canadian Nationals next month in Toronto.

“My goal is to be world champion,” said Lambert.

“I want to reach that, and I love Karate. Doing something I love every day is what drives me.”

Lambert said she hopes that the plaques on the Elite Athlete Wall will help drive other athletes to greatness.

“Keep going at it, keep training as hard as you can because you love it,” she said.