About Jay and Darby Throne

Mr. Jay Throne began his karate journey at Apple Valley National Karate under the instruction of Master Jim Albertson.  At just 9 years of age, Mr. Throne earned his  first degree black belt on December 8th 1990 and  2nd on December 9th 1991. Mr. Throne then had to wait 8 years before turning 18 and becoming eligible for 3rd degree which he earned in 1999 .
An original member of National Karate’s “High Flyer’s” competition team, he found success competing regionally in the 90s and was a NCKA top competitor winning grand champion trophies in forms, team forms, weapons and sparring.  He reached 4th degree in 2004.
Around 2009, He took time away from National Karate to start a new career as a Systems Engineer for a software development company out of Lakeville, where he has spent his days for the last 11 years. During that time, he married Darby and they have two awesome kids together, Landyn, 5 and Letty, 2.  Mr. Throne is thrilled to helm Hopkins National Karate and introduce people of all ages to the benefits of martial arts training that have enriched his life for over 30 years.