Greater London Open Championships

Khalsa Karate took squad B on their second competition for 2008. It was the coldest weekend in Easter for over 20 years and rain and snow couldnt keep the optimism down.

For some this was their first time competeting and for some it was a chance to put into practice thier hard work.

Up first was Luke Hardcastle. Luke produced a score of 21.5. Luke produced a good kata but need to work on composure and speed.

Next up was Ryan McQuade who produced a strong Godan but as this was his first time found the experience nerving, however done superb for his first time.

Both Natalie Atkinson and Sam Cannon(Ishin-Ryu) were in the adult kata group. Both girls done really well with Natalie in 6th place and Sam taking Gold.

Franny Hardcastle was up next in the kumite and took gold in her catergory by winning 8.0, 8.0,8.0. A clean sweep and although uncertain competed in the next catergory. She fought the finalist in the first round and took her to a draw. When to overtime and lost by one point. Franny looked absolutely awesome and so far has won 3 comps out of 3.

Up next was Jake McQuade who fought the very first time. Jake has all the heart of a fighter and allthough he fought a black belt who has won many comps, he only lost by 1 point. Jake produced a fantastic performance and even though he lost showed the courage and the belief he has to win.

Sophie was up next and after producing a superb win at the AMA she went through the first round abit scrappy. The second round was not Sophies best and the she got beaten. It is fair to say she didnt produce the quality she did at the AMA, however everyone has their bad days.

Next up was Jacky and Natalie in the senior kumite. Jacky has worked very hard in kumite of late and performed very well. Unfortunatley for Natalie Atkinson, she came up against another Natalie in Natalie Williams. After losing 8.0 Natalie enjoyed the experience and showed true courage. Well done ladies.

Last was Sensei Alton and Jay who both performed extremely well. Jay taking Bronze and Alton Gold.

All in all a good start for the B Squad and good experience. Well done All !!!!!