THE Wessex Karate Academy returned from the National GKI Championships in Chichester with a new club record for results.

WKA entered 21 students into the event and their hard work in training over the past few months paid off with a haul of 39 medals, including 11 gold, 15 silver and 13 bronze.

The grade levels ranged from beginners to experienced black belts with youngsters from eight upwards displaying their impressive skills on the mat.

So impressive were WKA’s achievements, sensei Peter Thompson received the Warren Easy Shield for all his hard work and commitment to the club, which is continuing to grow.

The students took part in individual kata displays (set pattern representing fighting skills), team kata (synchronised set pattern representing fighting skills), kumite (points sparring) and san shumoku (a three-part event including kata, showing each move from the kata as self-defence and sparring).

Clubs from all over the country were invited to attend the championships, which were also used as a trial for the England squad with many of the more experienced youngsters, who secured winning places, being invited to train with the national set-up in preparation for the International Championships.

Several WKA members faced disappointment earlier this year when their flights to one of this year’s internationals in Porto, Portugal were cancelled due to the volcanic ash cloud. However, they will get another chance to grace the world stage next month in Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon.

To find out more about WKA visit wessexkarate.co.uk or call Mary Thompson on 782673.