MEMBERS of the Rising Sun Kyokushinkai Karate Club came away with a host of medals from the 2017 British Karate Championships in Slough last weekend, including an international gold for one youngster.

Ruby-Lee Bennett was one of thirteen members from the club who made the trip south, claiming wins in fights against representatives from Ireland and England to win her first gold medal for Wales.

Also taking part in the individual mixed age 9-10 category, Ruby-Lee narrowly missed out on a final place after losing a close decision to one of her Wales teammates.

"I’m happy with the outcome and pleased with the results from the day," said Ruby-Lee.

"After six fights I've achieved what I wanted, so I'm proud to have a gold medal and trophy."

Rising Sun's first fight of the day involved Harry Tilby, who placed third in the men's event and beat three opponents over six rounds of contact fighting.

In the junior team event, six fighters narrowly missed out on a win over Welsh rivals Mountain Ash, with the Rhondda side scraping a 3-2 win to progress.

Morgan Evans took out three opponents in her event, which included an ‘ippon’ with a head kick against her final opponent, only to miss out on a final place by one point as she gained a well deserved bronze.

Lloyd Jones also made it to the semi-finals, only for a foul from his opponent for an excessive contact blow ­– which saw him disqualified – leaving Lloyd unable to continue. Lloyd also took a bronze medal home for his courage and braveness after getting injured.

Will Bennett also gained bronze after beating three opponents consecutively, before losing out in the semi-final to a strong English opponent who edged the tie on points.

Current under 10s Welsh Champion Oscar Bennett made it to the the second round but was beaten by a strong London-based fighter, while Jake Tressider, Katia Hewitson, Jamie Jones, Wilson Wong and Rhys Westall all fought well, narrowly missing out on wins.

Rising Sun would like to thank coaches Ian Nicholas, David Jenkins and Lewis Giles for their preparation towards the event, while club instructors Lee And Spencer Bennett would like to thank parents and club sponsors Wheelie Smart, Cardiff Auto Spray, Barry PC ’n’ Mobiles, Bennett's Removals, Slabi Clothing, and The Baruc Arms for their support.

For those interested in joining, taster sessions are free for prospective new starters. Junior classes take place between 6.30-7.30pm and seniors are between 8-9pm at the Barry Island Community Centre. Alternatively, call Lee on 07811 110368