A TAEKWONDO star has been lauded by her instructor after being crowned a world champion.
Gabriella Rhodes is now a combined world and European champion after adding victory at the TAGB World Championships to success at the EITF European Championships in April.
Her instructor, Carl Davis from Wantage’s Vale Taekwondo, hailed Rhodes as an ‘inspiration to the younger students and females in the area’.
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After watching Rhodes become a world champion at the TAGB event in Coventry, Davis said: “I am absolutely bursting with pride with the incredible achievements of Gabriella.
“She has not only won the EITF European Championships in April, but also emerged victorious in the TAGB World Championships, beating a collective of 10 countries on her way to become world and European champion.
“Gabriella’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Her unwavering dedication and relentless training have transformed her into a force to be reckoned with in the world of taekwondo.
“It’s amazing to witness how Gabriella has harnessed her emotions and transformed them into a winning mindset. She has shown us that with passion and determination, anything is possible.
“But her accomplishments go beyond just winning competitions. This remarkable female competitor has become an inspiration for countless young girls who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
“The positive impact of her success on younger females cannot be overstated. Seeing a strong, confident and skilled woman excel in martial arts can empower young girls to believe in themselves and their abilities.
“It encourages them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace challenges and strive for greatness in any field they choose.”
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On the positive impact sports like taekwondo can have on young women, Davis added: “Martial arts offer a plethora of benefits for young females.
“It not only enhances physical fitness, strength and coordination, but also fosters mental resilience, self-discipline and self-defence skills.
“By participating in martial arts, young girls can develop a strong sense of self-confidence, learn to set and achieve goals, plus build lifelong friendships within a supportive community.
“It’s not just about winning medals – it’s about the journey, the growth, and the positive influence you can have on others.
“I cannot express enough how incredibly proud I am of Gabriella’s accomplishments.”
Rhodes’ success follows a landmark achievement for Vale Taekwondo earlier this month.
The school has finished top at six successive national tournaments following a showstopping display at the London Open.
The martial arts school beat 39 others and stretched a run that started when winning the UK Open in 2021.
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