By Shane Gibson
A local kickboxing team has returned to Bristol with an impressive haul of medals after competing in the Wako Bulgarian European Cup in Plovdiv.
Representing GB Fit Kickboxing Gym, the team performed exceptionally under the guidance of their coach, Filton’s own, Sharon Gill — a seven-times World Champion in her own right.
Consisting of four young athletes, all aged between 11 and 15, the team returned home with multiples of gold, silver and bronze medals.
Speaking on her team’s achievements, Sharon said: “It was absolutely amazing!
“The divisions were stacked out with the top European kids against each other, so it’s really difficult.
“To see them come away with gold medals is unbelievable.
“I’m really happy with them.”
With over 2,000 competitors from all over Europe, the level of competition was at its highest. Gold medals were won by Cristiano Firth, Amelia Cussen and Anya-Rose Goldby, all of whom train at the Horfield-based gym.
Amelia and Anya-Rose also came home with the gold medal and the three-and-a-half foot tall trophy for the prestigious team event, consisting of teams competing from all over the world.
Looking to the future, Sharon is set on Team Bristol’s involvement in the 2032 summer Olympics.
She added: “I am hoping that Kickboxing [already a recognised Olympic sport] will make it into the 2032 summer games.
“If it does, that would be the icing on the cake, and I will do everything I can to get the guys that are of that young age to that level of competition.”
GB Fit Kickboxing gym is on Merton Road, Horfield.
For information, visit: www.iamgbfit.com