Success at the ITF Taekwondo Open World Championships in Scotland for Endeavor Taekwondo

It was an event to remember as Endeavor Taekwondo Club came back from a successful ITF Taekwondo Open World Championships in Scotland.

The students, including eight youngsters aged eight to 17, were taught by Sarah Harney, a third-degree black belt and European and world medallist who runs the club, including one at South Muskham.

“I started this club during the pandemic offering free online lessons, and now look how far we’ve come,” said Harney.

“I’m incredibly proud of all the hard work the children have all put in.

“In between training we also run fundraising events and I encourage everyone, children, and adults to come and give it a go.”

Harney competed in the elite black belt category, winning a silver medal for patterns and a bronze medal for sparring.

Her children, nine-year-old Erin and 16-year-old William also achieved bronze medals.

Taekwondo is a Korean form of martial arts characterised by punching and kicking techniques with an emphasis on head-height kicks, spinning jump kings, and fast-kicking techniques.

Harney said it was a great form of exercise, which helps people become stronger and more flexible.

Harney added that it teaches discipline and respect.

Kirsty Harrison, from Mansfield, who trains alongside her son Caleb, won a World Championship gold medal for sparring and a World Championship bronze medal for patterns.

Nine-year-old Sammy Coulton-Jones, from North Muskham, won a World Championship gold and two bronze medals.

Vanessa and David Schmidt and their children 11-year-old Evelyn and eight-year-old Thomas, from Southwell, went to the World Championships as a family, collectively bringing home two gold, two silver, and a bronze medal.

Mum Vanessa is now a World Champion. in sparring and special techniques.

Eight-year-old Jack Martin, from North Muskham, took World Championship gold for special techniques plus a silver for sparring and a bronze in the team patterns.

His brother, ten-year-old Thomas, battled through several intense rounds to win silver for sparring and a bronze for team patterns.

Their sister, 17-year-old Lucy, also got into the medals as she achieved bronze for sparring.

‘The club has given my children confidence and courage,” said their mum Claire Martin.

“The support from our leader is outstanding.

“Her dedication is truly amazing.

“My children have been attending for just over a year and I am amazed by their fantastic results from competing in the World Championships.’

Endeavor Taekwondo classes are held in South Muskham, Clay Cross, and Rainworth.