Bismarck Girl Competes as a World Class Martial Artist - KXNet - Bismarck/Minot/Williston/Dickinson

Bismarck Girl Competes as a World Class Martial Artist

A Bismarck girl is turning heads in the world of martial arts.

At twelve years old, taekwondo athlete Jacee Estes has already achieved more in her sport than most can dream of. Jon Schaeffer has the story.

Jacee Estes is like any twelve year old she goes to school-- she has all A's by the way-- and she enjoys competing in her favorite sport.But what's unique about this 12 year old participating in Taekwondo? Try the third degree black belt around her waist and her abilities that have put her in the top 10 in the world for her age group and belt level in all 8 skills.

"My highest rankings were second in creative weapon and I got first in Combat weapon. I can't remember everything else I got but I got like 5th in XMA form."

That happened this past year at the World Championships in Arkansas.

She has won numerous events and she has the trophy case to prove it.

Jacee is more then happy to tell you about her success yet remains humbled by her losses

Her parents couldn't be happier with the success they've see on and off the competition floor.

It has taken 6 and half years of commitment to get to where she is-- commitment a word that means a lot to the young athlete.

Jacee may not be your typical 12 year-old-- but she couldn't be happier competing at the highest level in Tae Kwon Do

For KXSports Jon Schaeffer.

In some places on the west coast, Jacee has earned the nickname "The Hammer" - given to her by the parent of an opponent who has been on the receiving end of her punches.

Master Materi works with Jacee at the ATA Academy in Bismarck - she says he is a big part of her success.