Kurt Tezel demonstrated karate at some very unusual places. He has done so in front the pyramids of Egypt, aboard the USS Intrepid, in New York, and on a Cocoa Beach golf course, Florida, in front of an alligator measuring 14 feet.
Some martial artists might refer to this as “warrior’s spirit”.
Sixth-degree black belt who trains at Ueshiro Merritt Island Karate Dojo, on SR 520 in Cocoa Beach, was playing golf at Cocoa Beach Country Club when he noticed a big alligator on the bank, and another nearby. He captured the moment with his camera in a move that was very Florida. He put aside his golf club and performed a Kata (a series movements in karate).
He said that the alligators were everywhere on the golf course. “They hang out on the banks, and every now and then you will see one walking.”
Tezel, dressed in golf attire, is shown on the green demonstrating karate techniques in front of an alligator. The video lasts less than one minute. The video zooms in on the familiar scaly torso of a large creature. Tezel estimated the gator to be up to 14 feet in length, and was only about 20 feet from it. The video was taken by his wife Tricia Tezel. He claimed there was another alligator in the area, but that it was not visible.
Kurt Tezel is the president of Supra Color Enterprises Inc., a long-time resident of Brevard and Merritt Island. He also holds the rank Sensei. If one of the alligators had moved or shown any movement while he was doing his kata his Floridian instincts would have kicked into gear: “Run serpentine, run zigzag.” He also kept in mind his wife’s reactions as she filmed this alligator karate scene.
Cocoa Beach Country Club has made it clear that alligators are possible to see there. This is stated in an online notice posted by the city of Cocoa Beach: “Wildlife : Waterfowl, birds, dolphins, raccoons, turtles, and alligators make Cocoa Beach Country Club into a wildlife sanctuary and habitat for all golfers. The course features a driving area, putting greens and a “19th hole” where you can enjoy a meal, drink of your choice, and reflect on the fantastic golf shots that you made. The CBCC offers banquet facilities for reasonable prices, perfect for hosting special celebrations or gatherings.
Several people have posted photos on Facebook of alligators that live at Cocoa Beach Country Club. Scroll down to see photos from social media, including some that may feature the same 14-foot-long alligator.
Safety Tips: What should you do if an alligator is in sight?
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says that even though residents of Florida have learned to live with alligators in harmony, there is always the possibility for conflict. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends that people do not feed alligators, but rather keep their distance when they see one. Swimming is only allowed in designated areas during daylight. FWC website states that pets should be kept on a leash, away from water.
Alligators rarely cause serious injuries, but you can call the nuisance alligator line at 866-392-4286 or go to myfwc.com if it is causing concern.
Alligators spotted at Cocoa Beach Country Club Golf Course in Florida
Cocoa Beach Country Club has seen alligators, large and small, over the years. There are signs warning of critters that may be on the course. Be careful of snakes and alligators.
Sangalang is the lead digital producer at USA TODAY Network – Florida. She holds a third-degree Black Belt in Ueshiro Shorin Ryu Karate USA. She trains in Melbourne Florida. Follow her on Instagram or Twitter at @byjensangalang.
