Last updated at 08:23, Friday, 05 March 2010

CUMBRIA Wado Kai karate club held its junior Championships at Moorclose Sports Centre, Workington.

ON THE MAT: Cumbria Wado Kai competitors, back from left: Alan Brown, Jay Williams, Lloyd Doran-Robinson, Aaron ODonnell, Christina Conkey, Oliver Pattinson, Tyler Hunter, Jerry O’Donnell and Sensei John Dougan with, front from left: Sensei Billy Baker, Sophie Croft, James Brown, Luke Scott, Jack Croft, Danny Hodgson, Katherine Brown, Jack Robinson, Joshua Pattinson and Sensei Paul Ditchburn

The kata began the proceedings and produced some very close competition with some excellent displays from all participants.

A special award of Clubman of the Year was presented to Sensei Paul Ditchburn 4th Dan in recognition of outstanding commitment and instruction to the students and the club.

Many thanks to the organisers and referees, Senseis John Dougan 1st Dan, Billy Baker 2nd Dan and Paul Ditchburn 4th Dan.

Cumbria Wado Kai has been based at Moorclose Sports Centre for over 30 years.

The club is a not-for-profit voluntary group which aims to make karate available for everyone in the community.

The benefits of karate training include the ability to defend yourself, physical wellbeing, increased confidence, respect for oneself and others, improved concentration as well as keeping fit and having fun.

Cumbria Wado Kai is currently running a beginners night on Fridays, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Sessions cost £3 for adults and £2 for children.

Anyone interested in joining can either just come along on a Friday evening or phone 01900 67873.

Results - White belt kata: 1, Jack Robinson.

Coloured belt kata: 1, Katherine Brown; 2, Danny Hodgson; 3, Sophie Croft.

Coloured belt kumite: 1, Jack Croft; 2, James Brown; 3, Danny Hodgson.

Students of the month: Danny Hodgson and Luke Scott.

First published at 19:29, Thursday, 04 March 2010
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk