MARTIAL artists based in Lyde Green hosted their first children’s competition in collaboration with their sister club.
Children aged between five and 15 competed in patterns, sparring and special technique classes at the South West Taekwon-Do event, held at Lyde Green Community Centre on November 9.
The tournament started with youngsters aged five to seven, known as Little Dragons, before moving on to older and higher-ranked students of the Korean martial art.
All those who took part were presented with a medal at the end of the day.
Family, friends and club members helped out – from judging competitions to serving tea and cake.
Margaret Reader, whose son and two granddaughters train at the club, made more than 200 cakes at the event, which raised £600 to support students taking part in elite competitions.
Instructor Vaughan Buxton, a 7th degree black belt and a British, European and World title holder, said: “This was a great opportunity for the students to gain confidence in a friendly and safe competitive environment.
“It’s about learning to perform under pressure and then look to progress to a larger stage, including national, at some point.”
Instructor Gavin Reader, who is a 3rd degree black belt, said: “It was a great day and the students had fun, which is the most important thing.
“We are grateful to everyone who helped out the day, including those who came to support the children.
“Events such as this help fund and develop talent in the club.”
The Lyde Green club was formerly known as Fishponds Taekwondo Academy but has now joined with the Thornbury club under the umbrella of South West Taekwon-Do.
Gavin said: “I think this collaboration makes us stronger and we can share resources with our students.”
A new logo has been designed by club supporter and designer Angela Maggs, reflecting the martial art and Bristol connection by showing a martial artists making a flying kick over the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
SWTKD Lyde Green trains at Lyde Green Community Centre every Wednesday and Friday.
For more information, call Gavin on 07500 764276 or visit www.swtkd.co.uk.