Karate medal haul for Burgess Hill Girls

More than 150 people aged 5 to 55 competed at the annual tournament at The Triangle, Burgess Hill on Sunday, March 1.

The tournament included Kata (forms), Kobudo (weapons) and Kumite (free sparring).

Eleven girls represented Burgess Hill Girls claiming three individual titles and four individual bronze medals.

Vanshika Koomar won gold in her first year in the junior 8 to 9 age group Kata competition.

Mirabelle Hogan and Sophie Brignall also took bronzes in this division.

There was more individual success in the Pee Wee 5 to 7 age group with Amber Mason and Rosalie Dempsey taking golds in the Kata and the novice competitions respectively.

The final two bronzes were picked up by Melissa Coleman and Amelie Worth in the junior 12 to 14 age group Kumite competition.

Charlotte Mason was runner-up in the Junior 8 – 9 age group plate competition.

To complement the individual medal haul, the Burgess Hill Girls team was third in the inter dojo competition for the third year running.

Julia Turley, leader of Renshinkan Karate England, said: “I was very impressed with the performance by Burgess Hill Girls.

“I am so happy to see Burgess Hill Girls do well, it was an outstanding performance from a small team.

“I am passionate about growing women’s and girls’ karate and I am sure the girls’ success will inspire others to give the sport a try.”

Burgess Hill Girls headteacher, Liz Laybourn, was also in attendance at the tournament.

She said: “It was thrilling to see our girls compete and win medals in a mixed sporting event. I cannot wait to see what they will do next!”