MORE than 100 competitors from clubs across the south of England took part in the Dragon Taekwondo Club competition on November 14. There were four different disciplines, Sparring, Patterns, Speed breaking and Power breaking.
Competitors from the Halwill club, despite their inexperience (pictured above), showed great courage and spirit when faced with more seasoned opposition. Returning to Devon with smiles as well as medals, they cannot wait for their next tournament.
RESULTS: Children: Jonathan Skinner 8; sparring silver; Jessica Kent-Wolsey 9; sparring gold; Sophie Kent-Wolsey 11; speed-breaking silver; Alice Morey 10; sparring silver and speed-breaking gold; Tia Riddy 9; patterns silver; Kiera Riddy 12; patterns bronze. Adults: Louise Harwood; sparring silver; Andy Warren; sparring silver; Sam Pulfer; black belt patterns bronze. The team was coached on the day by Miss Emma Grange, a national champion and international medal winner.
The Halwill Junction-based club was established 16 months ago by Master Niall Grange — twice British champion ('95 and '96) and international medal winner. Training in the Korean martial arts of WTF Taekwondo and Hosin-Hapkido is every Sunday at Halwill Junction Parish hall 10.30am to 12.30pm. Anyone interested in WTF Taekwondo or Hosin-Hapkido (self-defence) training can contact Niall on 01409 221458.