Tokon Karate Academy: Fighters from Chester and Wrexham excel at European tournament

A team of competitors were selected to compete for the Tokon Karate Academy competition team GB at the SKDUN (Shotokan Karate-Do United Nations) Belgium open European cup in Wevelgem, Belgium.

Tokon Karate Academy has clubs across the North West and North Wales.

The team took on top martial artists from across Europe in both Kata, which is a ‘forms’ event, and kumite, which is free-fighting.

Chief instructor, Sensei Antony Pendlebury, said the competitors had been training for months and he was immensely proud of their achievements.

Georgia Beatty, 14, from Blacon, bagged a bronze in the junior advance grade Kata and silver in the female junior advanced grade kumite.

Jade ward, 19, also from Blacon, took bronze in the senior female intermediate grade Kata.

Mark Simpson, 20, from Wrexham, received a bronze medal in the senior male advanced grade kumite.

Luca Jones, 12, from Upton, Chester, placed first in the junior advanced grade kumite.

Jeff Halsall, 39, also from Upton, received a bronze medal in the masters category and fourth place in the senior male kumite.

Antony said: “From a coach’s point of view they all performed outstandingly, turning many heads. For many of them it was their first international event which makes it even more of an achievement.

“We are the only karate club in Chester which already boast European and world champions, so this is a great addition to the club’s success.”

He added: “Tokon Karate Academy are based over the north west, we are now taking new students juniors and adults whether you want to go in to competition, learn self-defence or just learn a hobby we cater for all.”

For further information visit