Members of Newark Karate Club represent England at the Japanese Karate Association European Championships

Members of Newark Shotokan Karate Club travelled to Gent, Belgium as they represented England at the Japanese Karate Association European Championships.

Shaun Cassidy and Josh Hyde, took part in the contest at the Sport Vlaanderen in Gent, Belgium, where competitors tested themselves against the best from 27 European countries in kata (forms) and kumite (fighting).

Both were competing in kumite, individually and as part of the Senior Men’s England Team.

Whilst their individual rounds were not as successful as they would have hoped, as a team they found success.

For the first time in ten years the England Men’s Senior Team found themselves in the final, facing the Czech Republic.

Two of whose team had made it to the final four in the individual event.

All rounds were hard fought contests, Josh facing the senior men’s European Champion against whom a draw was awarded.

At the end of the third round it was a draw with both teams having won, drawn and lost a round.

On count back, the England Team were victorious and they achieved gold for the first time in JKA Englands 21 year history.

“Following their success at the European Championships, Josh and Shaun have been selected to represent JKA England at the World Championships being hosted in Japan in October,” said sensei Chris Walsh.

“Joining them will be club mate Lorenzo Costantin, who will be competing in his first major tournament.”