Karate trio star for England

The tournament began with the junior event in which 15-year-old Jenny Rayner, making her debut against an experienced Welsh fighter, did superbly well to battle her way through to a well-deserved draw.

The next Bexhill representative in action was Rebecca Woods, also 15, who faced an old enemy who she had met many times previously. The fight was equally matched, very lively and highly scored by both fighters, and again resulted in a draw. England went on to win the junior event 3-2.

As this was the last time Jenny could represent England at junior level before turning 16, she is looking to win a place in the cadet team in the Severn Challenge in September. Rebecca was slightly disappointed with her performance but is still unbeaten after flying the English flag seven times.

The cadet team joined the juniors in celebrating victory but both the men and women non-contact teams lost their tie which dampened the atmosphere somewhat. This all changed when the third and final local member, Derek Lowers, making his national debut at senior level, took on an opponent both taller and more experienced than himself.

The first round lacked any real action other than the odd exchange of techniques and it was no surprise when it was announced as a draw. Lowers, however, showed his true class in the second round of two minutes, and went on to earn England a vital point, even though Wales clinched the overall knockdown title.

Coach Sensei Chris Seal was very proud of all three club members and hopes they and other members will continue to compete at this level.