Students from Burgess Hill Girls picked up multiple medals at the annual Mid Sussex Renshinkan Karate tournament.
The competition was held earlier in March at The Triangle, Burgess Hill, where over 150 competitors ranging from ages 5-55 showed off their skills in Kata (forms), Kobudo (weapons) and Kumite (free sparring).
Eleven girls represented the school, with students winning a total of three individual titles and four bronze medals.
Vanshika Koomar won gold in her first year in the Junior 8-9 age group Kata competition, with Mirabelle Hogan and Sophie Brignall earning bronzes in this division. There was more individual success in the ‘Pee Wee’ 5-7 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 12-14 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 came third in the inter dojo competition for the third year running.
Julia Turley, 6th Dan and the Leader of Renshinkan Karate England, commented: “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 Head Liz Laybourn attended the event and added: “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!”