Express & Star

Dudley aces have conquered Europe

Trophy-laden Dudley Shukokai Karate Club have come home from the European Championships with their heads high after winning another seven medals.

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Seven competitors from the club travelled to Belgium to compete in the WUKF Championships.

Boy wonder Harvey Hawkes, 12, has been winning trophies since the age of four, and didn't disappoint, returning to the UK with a bronze medal in the individual kata and silver in the team kata, along with his cousin Farren Brown, who won silver.

The group had been training up to seven days a week in preparation for the Championships, and have already started planning for future international tournaments in Ireland and Romania.

Harvey's mother Julie, 46, said: "Harvey and the group have worked so hard and their success in this tournament just proves that.

"It's not just a hobby for them, it's more of a lifestyle now. It's almost like a family affair with Harvey and his cousin Farren being trained by their auntie."

Her sister, karate teacher Mandy Brown, 50, has taught the youngsters since the age of four. She said: "They are perfect model students and I honestly couldn't be prouder of them all. I've trained for 30 years myself but the buzz I get from seeing them all competing and winning leaves me speechless.

"It's an achievement to win any competition, but to go to Europe and compete with the world's best and come back with medals is phenomenal.

"They've all grown up together and are best friends. It is a lovely atmosphere at the club."

The club train at Thorns Community College, Stockwell Avenue, Quarry Bank and have at least 100 members training with them each week, with the age ranging from four to 67.

The club is currently promoting free membership all through July and August.

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