Mansfield's Viper Martial Arts Academy students scoop six medals at WKO World Championships
Dale Taylor, Chief Instructor and Head Coach of Viper Martial Arts Academy Mansfield, took two of his students to the WKO World Championships.
The Championships were held over three days, with more than 2,000 competitors from 49 different countries taking part.
The WKO and WAKO are the largest two organisations and have the highest standard of competitors, which shows the magnitude of these youngsters’ achievements.
Nevaeh Freeman competed in four fighting categories — two in the ring on the Saturday and two on the tatami on Sunday. Nevaeh came home with a gold medal and three silvers in both her kickboxing and boxing categories.
She was the smallest and lightest in her categories, giving away 10kg in the ring, but what she lacked in size and height she more than made up in heart.
Her performances were no surprise to coach Dale, who said her ‘achievements are a credit to her desire, dedication and commitment’.
In her first year competing, Nevaeh is now a World Champion, further adding to the two WKO European golds she won back in May.
Noah also came away with two silver medals, having competed in both the kickboxing and boxing categories on the Sunday.
“I am extremely proud of these two but I am equally as proud of all my students that I teach.” Dale said. “I don't make them compete but anyone that does, I am happy to take them to tournaments and coach them wherever they may be.”
He also gave a special mention to Nevaeh's parents, who were on an emotional rollercoaster both days but came away with memories they will never forget.
Dale is a third Dan black belt in Freestyle Sport Karate/Kickboxing, second Dan black belt in WTF Taekwondo and a first Dan black belt in Shaolin Kung Fu. He is also a qualified World Kickboxing Organisation Instructor, and was entered into the MAI Black Belt Hall of Fame, along with being awarded his MAI Excellence in Teaching Award.