BROADOAK Mathematics and Computing College Year 11 student, Sam Difford, competing for Oldmixon and Uphill Karate Kai Club, took part in the AMA International Karate Open at Sheffield Ponds-Forge International Sporting Arena.

BROADOAK Mathematics and Computing College Year 11 student, Sam Difford, competing for Oldmixon and Uphill Karate Kai Club, took part in the AMA International Karate Open at Sheffield Ponds-Forge International Sporting Arena.

Sam was competing under two weight categories, the 14-15-year-old 63kg and under category, and the 14-15 year old open weight category, 90kg and under.

Sam was competing against the top fighters from a number of different countries, including England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and Iran.

Fighting in his weight category of 63kg and under, Sam fought his way through five difficult rounds to reach the final where he met another English competitor, and eventually won gold and the title of AMA International Karate Open 14-15 years -63kg champion.

Fighting in the more difficult open weight category, Sam fought many competitors who were a lot heavier and stronger than him. Amazingly Sam progressed through three rounds to narrowly lose in the semi-final to the eventual winner of the competition.

In the reportage (third/fourth place play-off), Sam was victorious against a Welsh competitor to claim a highly impressive third place overall.

If you are interested in taking up karate with Oldmixon and Uphill Karate Kai Club, please contact Sensei Wendy White (4th Dan) on 01934 814550.

The club train at Oldmixon Primary School on Wednesdays at 7.30pm and Uphill Victory Hall on Fridays at 7.30pm.

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