Success for Elgin's Kaizen Kickboxing in Paisley as youngsters qualify for World Championships in Indonesia
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THERE was reason to celebrate for Kaizen School of Kickboxing as a host of youngsters came home with medals from a competition in Paisley.
The World Kickboxing Association's Scottish Championships took place at the Paisley Lagoon Centre in February – where a number of Moray locals secured passage to the World Championships, due to take place this year in Bali.
Ethan Hendry and Ross Sharp (both 15) had both hoped to go to Indonesia to the Worlds, and Ross qualified with bronze and gold, while Ethan returned home with three golds.
Siblings Logan (18), Erin (14) and Cain Morris (12) returned with seven medals between them, while medals also went to Logan Souter, Natalie Sayle (15), Amirah Cherif (14), Ella MacGillivray (11), Isaac Hussain (8) and Ross McGregor (7).
In total, Kaizen returned to Moray with 10 golds, eight silvers and three bronze medals, but competing well was success enough for others.
"The team did well," head coach Kayleigh Kirk said. "I'm especially proud of my little guys who were competing in their first tournaments.
"After Christmas they were all hungry to get back on the mats. It was good for the vast majority to get medals, that was the aim.
"I'm chuffed for everyone – even stepping on the mat and holding their own is a big thing. Congratulations to them all, they are seeing the achievements for their hard work."
Aside from the youngsters, who were competing in the beginners section, everyone who picked up a medal has qualified to compete in Bali in June.
There, they will take on the best from countries all over the world.
"I'm really pleased and chuffed for them all," Kayleigh added.
"We have always been a force to be reckoned with – you know when you are against a Kaizen fighter then you're in for a tough fight.
"We took on New Zealand and Australia in Wales last year, but a lot of countries with big teams will be there this year, like Indonesia and Pakistan, so it'll be a whole new ball game."
Money is a major factor for those interested in travelling to the Worlds – and one that will put barriers in the way for some.
"We are waiting on details on where we stand money-wise," Kayleigh added.
"We are trying to do a big Team Scotland fundraiser, and that's in the pipeline, but we welcome any kind of sponsorship.
"It's such a commitment for parents. We welcome any kind of sponsorship, whether that's helping an individual or the team – it goes a long way."
Ethan Hendry is one member of the team who's confident going into the Worlds.
"I'll get over there one way or another, and I'll definitely be bringing home some golds," he said.
Local businesses interested in sponsoring Kaizen should get in touch with Kayleigh at kayleighjkirk@gmail.com
