Father and son team kickbox in Canada

RICHARD and George Nye, father and son, from North Tawton, have returned from the World Kickboxing Council World Kickboxing Championships in Canada, held earlier this month, with a bronze medal for Richard and a great deal of experience for George.

George, who fought in both points and continuos -55kg cadets boys, aged 13 to 15 years, was in one of the biggest categories, with more than 13 lads in each section from around the world.

He was unlucky to get a tough draw in both, against the Irish champions in both sections.

The Irish lads went on to win golds in both, knocking George out in the first rounds.

Richard said George showed great courage and skill.

He added: "George put in 100 per cent but was beaten on the day by better fighters."

He continued: "I fought in the veterans +42 years -85kg section in continuos fighting, winning my way to the semi-finals but missing out only by a split decision against the former and now World Champion from USA who had 30 years plus experience on me and a former USA All Star, who commented after that I had given him the toughest fight of the tournament.

"He also went on to win two silver medals in the younger and older section and said for someone with only 17 months of training in kickboxing the bronze was a huge achievement and was looking forward to fighting me again in Italy next October at the fifth WKC World Championships.

Richard said he would like to thank Carl Throgmorton from Westward Investment Management Services UK Ltd, who sponsored him to take part and to the Mercure Hotel Group who sponsor his gym membership.