Black Knights celebrate four British title wins

Burnley Black Knights recently travelled to Rugby to compete in the British Kickboxing Championships at the Queen's Diamon Jubilee Centre.

Jayden Saddique, only six, in his first-ever competition, was excellent, winning two bouts to reach the final, where he was just outpointed, taking the silver medal in the Light Contact open weight section.

Jay Hawthornwaite, nine, in his second outing, won bronze, giving a good account of himself in the 12 and under age group.

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Jameel Saddique became British champion in the 13/14 years’ 45kg group. His final was fast-paced, with great exchanges, before Jameel started to take over.

Ewan Hartley lived up to the club’s motto “no fear”. He was asked to compete in two divisions, giving away height and reach against his opponents, but he was in two straight finals, claiming silver in both.

Callum Mills, in his first competition at 70kg, put up a good show and was defeated in the final by a very experienced fighter.

Ryan Marsden, in his first full contact event, took control of the ring and outclassed his Barnsley opponent, with good body movement and faints, switching kicks and good ring skills to become 15/17 years’ 55kg British champion.

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Jack Hudson made short work of last year’s World bronze medalist. Jack hit him with a great body shot that put him down, then a big exchange of techniques. Jack then threw a very fast left upper cut that knocked out his opponent, within the first minute of the first round to claim the British title.

In her first full contact event, Riona Hartley gave away height in the final to her opponent. The first round was a chess match, but Riona started to believe in herself and outclass and outtime her opponent, and took the decision to be British champion 13/14 years’ 45kg.

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