Straughn’s Taj Patel picked up top honors at the Isshinryu Hall of Fame Banquet and Tournament in Gatlinburg, Tenn.

The weekend started with Patel being honored at the tournament’s banquet.

At the banquet, Patel was honored as a finalist for Young Male Karate Ka (13-17) and Junior Competitor of the Year.

Patel previously won Junior Male Karate Ka in 2018 and Young Male Competitor of the Year in 2017.

He was a finalist for Junior Male Karate Ka in 2018, 2016 and 2015.

He was a finalist for Young Male Competitor of the Year in 2018 and 2016.

Patel’s honors didn’t stop at the banquet as he put up a strong battle during the tournament.

In the tournament, Patel placed first in  Youth Black Belt weapons.

He finished in second place in Youth Black Belt sparring.

Patel’s tournament wrapped up with a second place finish in Youth Black Belt kata.

The Isshinryu Hall of Fame tournament is the largest Isshinryu tournament in the world.

The top competitors from all over the world compete in the event.

The Isshinryu Hall of Fame Board of Directors reviews each and every nomination for the awards presented at the banquet.

They select the finalist out of many hundred qualified nominations.

The Awards Ceremony is attended by more than 500 Isshinryu Masters, instructors, students and families.