Board approves change to membership policy
Affiliated clubs registering on rsportz solely for WAKO competitions also agree that their athletes and support personnel will be bound by the UK Anti-Doping rules for a period of 12 months from the start of the licence or from the date of the relevant competition. The change in our policy evidences our adoption of the UK Anti-Doping rules and is part of the ongoing work to ensure Kickboxing GB is compliant with UKAD’s assurance framework.
The assurance framework assists Kickboxing GB in maintaining a comprehensive set of steps that will mitigate the risk associated with doping in the sport of Kickboxing. Compliance with the policy not only cements our commitment to maintaining a clean sport but is also a condition of eligibility when it comes to seeking any public funding.
For more information on UK Anti-Doping Rules, visit our website at https://www.kickboxinggb.com/Education/Anti-Doping/.
Kickboxing GB at the 2023 World Combat Games
Team GB, led by President Peter Edwards and Vice President Neville Wray, saw Chris Aston, Jack Buckley, and Grace Chandler competing in their respective Point Fighting categories. The support team comprised of esteemed GB Coaches Sean Veira and Billy Bryce, along with seasoned international referee Shaun Whelan.
The cultural richness of Riyadh offered a unique backdrop for the athletes, who are well-travelled but found this experience particularly enriching. Coach Veira lauded the high calibre of athletes and the exceptional standards of the event, which echoed the Olympic spirit through its professionalism and hospitality.
Coach Bryce, reflecting on the event's significance, expressed that even though Kickboxing is not part of the Olympic Games, the World Combat Games fostered a sense of Olympic camaraderie and inclusion.
In terms of competition, the GB qualifiers had previously proven their mettle at the WAKO European Games. Grace Chandler, facing the reigning European Champion Carol Scacchi, showed tenacity despite a 13-7 defeat. Jack Buckley, against Erik Zimmermann, displayed exemplary skill, advancing through the rounds and reaching the final, only to be hindered by an injury.
Chris Aston, however, emerged victorious in the -94kg division, overcoming Italy's Davide Mancuso with a decisive 18-11 win. This triumph, coming after a narrow and contentious defeat earlier in the year, was a sweet redemption for Aston and a testament to his world-class abilities.
The GB Team's achievements at the World Combat Games have set the stage for future successes, with promises of more stories to unfold from these world-renowned athletes.
2023 World Combat Games - Chris Aston vs Davide Mancuso
2023 World Combat Games - Jack Buckley vs Bence Zajacz
Kickboxing GB Adopts UK Anti-Doping Rules
But why is this move so crucial? Beyond the fundamental goal of maintaining the integrity of our sport, joining the UKAD framework is a prerequisite for sports aiming to secure public funding. Moreover, it's an essential criterion for membership within the British Olympic Association. In essence, our commitment to Anti-Doping places us on the direct path towards Olympic readiness.
Top Team in Europe
WAKO CHILDREN, CADETS AND JUNIOR EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
28th August to 3rd September 2023
INSTANBUL TURKEY
Compiled by Chris Collymore - Head Coach Junior Team
Kickstartsboxing GB laid a solid foundation with its well-executed British National championships. Competitors from across the nation vied for the esteemed title of WAKO British champion. The podium finishers were then invited to monthly open squad training and a two-day summer training camp at Lilleshall National Sports Centre. This rigorous journey aims to refine the athletes' skills and foster a bond with the coaching staff, ensuring they are mentally and physically prepared for the WAKO Junior European Championships. From this process, Kickboxing GB was poised to select a formidable squad to represent against the best of Europe.
Outbound Journey
This year, the Kickboxing GB squad had a significant presence at the WAKO European championships. Flights departed from Scotland, two from London Heathrow, one from Manchester, and one from Birmingham. The squad comprised 90 athletes competing in over 133 categories, supported by 94 fans and 20 coaching staff and officials.
Arrival
All flights landed punctually in Turkey. Each group proceeded directly to the weigh-in location in Istanbul to confirm their weight class and officially register for this esteemed competition. Every participant met their weight class requirements, underscoring the athletes' professionalism. The team then checked into their hotel, had dinner, and rested after a long travel day.
Day of Scheduling
While the Kickboxing GB athletes enjoyed a day of relaxation and sun, the coaches and officials attended seminars and the official draw. The coaching staff ensured everyone was registered in their respective competition sections. This year was particularly notable for Kickboxing GB, as many athletes competed in multiple individual sections, showcasing their dedication and fitness. Later in the day, a team meeting was held to discuss the week's schedule and set expectations for both athletes and supporters.
Let the Games Begin…
After an early breakfast, the team headed to the stadium. Team GB secured prime seating, and the Union Jack flags were prominently displayed. The supporters' enthusiasm was unparalleled.
In Attendance… (Day 1, Monday 28th August)
The WAKO European championships saw participation from 38 countries, totalling over 1500 competitors. The atmosphere was electric, setting the stage for a competition of resilience and performance. Kickboxing GB had 39 starts on the first day, spanning various fighting disciplines: Full Contact, Points Fighting, Light Contact, and Kick Light.
The Fighting Begins…
The calibre of fighting on the first day of the WAKO European championships seems to escalate with each international event. The athletes showcased exceptional skill and tactical acumen. While many from the Kickboxing GB squad delivered outstanding performances, standout fighters included Emily Greatrix, Joshua Aimger-Boyt, and Jake Studwick. However, Kenzo Cambridge was crowned "Fighter of the Day."
DAY 1 Analysis...
Kickboxing GB's achievements for the day were commendable: out of 39 starts, 27 fighters advanced to the next round, translating to a 69% conversion rate.
In Attendance… (Day 2, Tuesday 29th August)
After an early breakfast, Kickboxing GB was en route to the venue. The day featured Forms, Full Contact, Points Fighting, Light Contact, and Kick Light competitions.
Forms Categories
The Forms divisions were a highlight, with competitors showcasing unparalleled skill and composure. After the judges' evaluations, Kickboxing GB celebrated significant achievements. Notable performances included those by Florence Lucas and Shayla Williams. Out of 12 starts, the team secured 9 medals: 5 Gold and 4 Silver, a 75% podium conversion rate.
Fighting Categories
Inspired by the Forms team's success, the Kickboxing GB fighters showcased exceptional skill and technique. Notable fighters included Teia Doyle, Adam Devet, Masie Ross, and several others. However, Aaron Kingsley & Jack Adamson stood out. Out of 53 starts, 41 fighters advanced, marking a 77% conversion rate.
In Attendance… (Day 3, Wednesday 30th August)
The days seemed to blur as Kickboxing GB returned to the venue, securing prime seating for optimal athlete support.
Forms Categories
The Forms competitors continued to dazzle, with standout performances by Marshall Powell & Florence Lucas. The Forms team's stats were impressive: out of 10 starts, they secured 9 medals, a 90% podium conversion rate, with 6 being Gold.
Fighting Categories
This was the coaching staff's busiest day, with 67 starts spanning various fighting disciplines. The day was filled with high-energy starts and numerous standout performances. By day's end, out of 67 starts, 37 fighters advanced, marking a 55% conversion rate.
In Attendance… (Day 4, Thursday 31st August)
The mood was upbeat in the Kickboxing GB camp, but as the medal rounds approached, the intensity was palpable.
Forms Categories
The Forms divisions continued to impress, with standout performances by Marshall Powel & Emily Pearce and Jack Adamson-McMinn & Kaden Lukas. Out of 9 starts, the team secured 9 medals, a 100% podium conversion rate, with 7 being Gold.
Fighting Categories
The day's fights were intense, with several Kickboxing GB fighters delivering memorable performances. Special recognition goes to Harley Quinn Guiver, who secured Kickboxing GB's first fighting Gold medal of the championships. By day's end, out of 61 starts, 44 fighters advanced, marking a 72% conversion rate.
In Attendance… (Day 5, Friday 1st September)
The atmosphere was charged as the semi-finals and finals approached.
Semi-Finalists
Out of 14 fighters, 11 advanced, marking a 79% success rate.
Finalists
The finals were intense, with several standout performances. Out of 26 starts, 16 fighters won, marking a 62% win rate. Special recognition goes to Summer Harvey & Maia Bisley, who each secured 3 Gold medals.
In Attendance… (Day 6, Saturday 2nd September)
The mood was upbeat, but the finals and team event remained.
Tatami Results
Out of 11 starts, Kickboxing GB celebrated 9 new WAKO European champions, marking an 82% success rate.
Ring Results
The ring fights were intense, with 2 wins out of 3 starts, marking a 67% success rate.
The Team Event…
The team event was the highlight, with 8 teams participating. Kickboxing GB secured 2 Gold team medals, 1 silver, and 4 bronze medals, marking an 88% win rate.
Summary
Gratitude goes to the parents and supporters who gave their unwavering encouragement throughout the week. To Phil, Linda, Nigel, Lucy Edwards, Nev Wray, and Peter Edwards for all the unseen work that is needed on an international trip such as this. Also a big shout out to our referees Brian Beck, Peter Markland and Mark Holmes, who made his debut at international level.
Last but by no means least, a massive thank you to the coaching team that helped to make this European Championships such a success. The coaching team included Chris Collymore (Head Coach - Juniors), Dev Barret, Sean Veira, Sharon Gill, Duane Reid, Tony Atherton, Kevin Baldwin, Carl Thomas and Dale Bannister.
A historic performance by the junior squad that saw Kickboxing GB secure the top spot on the medal table with 48 Gold, 27 Silver, 22 Bronze medals and Junior Athlete Liam Holden being awarded Best Tatami Fighter of the championships.
