PHOTO: Danny Evans
Lexi Farrell is the real-life Karate Kid. After undergoing major brain surgery three years ago at Great Ormand Street, aged just 6, Lexi followed her dream in learning karate after being told it wouldn’t be possible. Since then, the now 9-year-old has gone from strength to strength, both in her recovery and her karate career.
What made you want to get into karate?
The Karate Kid film – it’s my favourite film and I’ve seen it about 100 times! I had brain surgery in 2016 and was told I wouldn’t be able to do contact sports, so I wanted to prove everybody wrong and show them I am tough. Two months after my surgery, I had recovered so well that my surgeon let me try karate and I’ve been hooked ever since!
What have you achieved with your karate so far?
I have lots of medals and trophies from various competitions. I’m also Variety Club’s Sports Star of the Year 2019, which was a big achievement for me because lots of really special children got nominated. My biggest achievement is probably my 3 European gold medals. Oh, and my brown belt, which is pretty cool for a 9-year-old.
What is it that you love most about karate?
I train 6 days a week, so it keeps me busy and gives me focus. It has helped with my discipline and focus at school too. I have made loads of good friends at karate, and I also really like helping the new children start to build their confidence and learn the art of Kenpo.
Where do you hope your karate will take you in the future?
I would love to be in the Olympics doing martial arts, representing Jersey and England. That’s my ultimate dream for the future. I would also like to become an instructor to keep the art going for future generations.
What’s next for Lexi in the immediate future?
I have a few competitions coming up, but my main focus is on the training I’ve started for my Junior black belt. My aim is to get my Junior black belt before Christmas this year!
