TAVISTOCK'S George Nye has returned from the World Kick Boxing Championship in Portugal with a silver medal.
The 12 year-old earned his medal not in his category but in the cadets which is two categories higher than his for boys aged 13-15 and -45 kg.
George at -40 kg faced the 15 year old from the well known Alfie Lewis gym in Liverpool, who is a black belt and British champion in the -45kg cadets. George just lost out on a bronze medal by going down 4-1 points in his weight and age category after two rounds of fighting a close fight at this level. He put his name forward to fight the ten times world champion at his weight but in the cadets category 13-15 age group as his opponent dropped out and no one else would fight him.
A sleepless night followed and George was in the world final standing on the mat looking at his opponent ready to fight to be told at the last minute he was not going to be fighting this lad but one in the higher weight cat -45g.
George stepped on the mat to face the champion from Liverpool in the next round. George with his dad Richard in his corner fought the fight of his life getting in some strong kicks and punches showing great speed and footwork. After two long two minute rounds he bravely lost out in the end to the stronger more experienced fighter. His opponent said that George had given him one of his toughest fights and was going to be a great fighter. Alfie Lewis himself shook his hand and said he liked his style and guts — a great achievement for George's first world championship.
George would like to thank this years sponsors and is still looking for more sponsorship for future competions and next year's world championship. Anyone interested in helping him please contact Richard Nye on 07929 610362.