Union Karate-Do celebrates remarkable 16-medal European haul

Union Karate-Do from North Devon shine on the European stage

North Devon martial arts club Union Karate-Do is celebrating an incredible international achievement after ten of its athletes were selected to represent Team GB at the European International Martial Arts Games.

The talented team has now returned home with an outstanding 16 medals, proudly flying the flag for Great Britain and North Devon in the process.

Their remarkable haul included seven gold, four silver and five bronze medals, capping months and years of hard work, dedication and training.

Among the standout performances was John Findlay, who claimed silver in Kata before helping Team GB to gold in Team Kumite.

His son Jasper Findlay also played his part in the Team Kumite gold medal success.

There was further gold for Bobby Ryan, who won the Kata title, while also adding a silver in Weapons and bronze in Kumite.

Ashley Baraniak enjoyed an equally successful competition, taking gold in Kumite alongside bronze medals in both Kata and Weapons.

Brooke Cain added a bronze in Kumite, while Steve Escritt produced a superb triple-gold performance, winning Kumite, Points Fighting and Continuous Fighting.

Grace Hadley completed the medal-winning performances with bronze in Kata and silver medals in both Weapons and Kumite.

For Union Karate-Do, however, the medal tally tells only part of the story.

Behind every medal are countless hours of preparation, early mornings, late evenings and demanding training sessions, as the athletes have worked to develop not only as martial artists but also as disciplined and respectful individuals.

The club has paid tribute to the families, friends and supporters who backed the team throughout its international journey, with their encouragement proving invaluable.

Particular praise has been reserved for Sensei Aaron Blake and Sensei Gary Blake, whose commitment, coaching and belief in their students have played a major role in developing successful competitors and confident young people.

Their passion for martial arts continues to inspire students of all ages across North Devon.

The club has also thanked everyone who contributed through fundraising and sponsorship, sent messages of encouragement or simply followed the team's progress.

Every contribution helped make the European adventure possible.

And while Union Karate-Do is understandably celebrating its impressive 16-medal haul, the club believes the achievement could be the start of something even bigger.

The team hopes its success will shine a positive light on North Devon and encourage more young people to discover the benefits of martial arts.