SIFU Rob Byrnes of the International Taijiquan and Shaolin Wushu Association (ITSWA) took a team of four students to compete in a national level competition on Sunday, February 22 at Meadow Hall in Medway, Kent.

For his students this was their first national competition.

Despite first time nerves and a long travel the team proved themselves more than worthy and took two gold and three silver medals.

This made Rob a National Martial Arts Champion for the second year running and Edward Overton (12) of Queen Elizabeth's Academy became a National Champion for the first time.

This could not have come at better time for the martial arts club because it marked the end of a week of celebrating Chinese New Year with Traditional Lion Dance and several Kung Fu demonstrations, not to mention a lot of practice for the competition!

Now that the club and Rob are proven at National level he is determined to keep up the success.

There are several more competitions planned throughout the coming year including a British Championship and European Championship, as well as other Nationals.

"We have an active club and as well as the competitions we will be taking part in the upcoming Crediton Festival and other local events in Exeter and the rest of Devon," said Rob.

Classes for children and adults are held in Crediton on a Monday evening and Sifu Rob is opening a school in Okehampton with a children's class starting on April 9, at the Phoenix Health Club in the town, also on Mondays, from 4pm to 5pm.

Classes cater for children aged five to 13 years and adults from 14 years and over.

For class enquiries contact Rob on 07973 263 049 or for more information visit the website: http://www.prayingmantisboxing.co.uk">www.prayingmantisboxing.co.uk .