XS club has 15 British champs

The first National Championships were held at the Sports Connexion at Ryton-on-Dunsmore, a venue where XS Taekwondo Club had been victorious before and competitors were hoping for good results again.

Miss Marie McAneny (4th degree International Instructor) led a 28-strong team of both black belt and coloured belt students of all ages to compete.

The timetable is well tuned now and the weekend proceedings started once again on Friday lunchtime with the students and their supporters meeting at Broadwood Stadium to board the coach for the long journey south. The saltire flag bunting was displayed, the flags hung, the voices were at full volume and the XS troupe were on their way.

After an early breakfast on Saturday morning the competitors with the support team arrived at the venue to find the atmosphere was upbeat from the start and both competitors and supporters were enjoying themselves amidst some nerves. There were welcoming smiles to the newcomers along with the usual friendly banter amongst old friends.

The tournament commenced with all competitors on the squares and the officials forming a walkway. The guests and senior members of the association led by Master Oldham, 8th degree, President of GT-UK were introduced, the oath taken and the tournament was declared open.

The competition commenced with the coloured belt students showing a good standard overall. The junior black belt students followed and the high standard continued especially in the sparring with the medal count rising.

After the Junior and Peewee medal presentation came the demonstration involving Mr. Richard Auciello, Mr. Darren Holmes, Mr Andrew Holmes and other members of the GTUK England squad.

The applause at the end was loud and appreciative which got everyone in the mood for the adult Black Belt competition to follow.

Once again the XS students were very successful in achieving medals in all grades and categories, the total was 15 gold medals creating British Champions, nine silver medals, nine bronze medals.

The day ended with a party where everyone let their hair down and enjoyed a great evening and energy levels continued to soar and the dance floor packed all evening.

The weekend had been another hugely successful championship.

For more information on the XS clubs contact Marie McAneny on 07770 210705 or [email protected]