Club shines with big medal haul at national event
MEMBERS of Yamaguchi Goju-Kai Karate-Do in Grays had an impressive showing at the English Kyu Grade Championships held at Ponds Forge Arena in Sheffield last Sunday.
With over 1,000 competitors from 47 clubs and associations, it was a bustling day that began at 9:30 am with the club's first competitors, Eva Barts and Talia Graves, and concluded at 8pm with Arnes Hadzic.
While the day saw its share of highs and lows, every member of the squad gave their all, which was evident in the medal results: securing six golds, four silvers, and eight bronzes, ultimately placing the club fourth overall—a remarkable feat for a traditional style that competes in both Kata and Kumite. This is the first time in nearly 20 years the club has reached this level of success.
Coach Shihan Mark Adams said: "Our club's excellence did not go unnoticed. The National Kata coach frequently commended the high standard of our Kata skills throughout the day.
"Additionally, we are proud to have two of our students, Leya Barts and Tomas Gudatis, representing the National Kata Squad. Melissa McDonald also caught the attention of the National coach and has been invited to participate in National Squad training sessions.
"This tournament served as excellent preparation for our upcoming World Championships in Tokyo, Japan, this August. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our coaches and parents for their unwavering support."
The club's results:
Kata Gold
Eva Barts
Melissa Macdonald
Matt Rixon
David Bancroft
Kata Silver
Adam Pippet
David Bancroft
Kata Bronze
Talia Graves
Ananda Clifton-Smith
Mitchell Ames
Nila Chauhan
Keelan Perry
Lucas Perry
Micheal Barber
Kick master Gold
Talia Graves
Kumite Gold
Arnz Hazic
Kumite Silver
Adam Pippet
Melissa McDonald
Eva Barts
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