Wantage taekwondo school crowned best overall at UK Open

Vale Taekwondo, based in Wantage, was crowned the number one overall school at the UK Open, holding onto the crown for a record fourth time in a row.

Vale TKD claimed an impressive 20 gold medals, 14 silvers and 14 bronze, helping them to top ahead of strong competition from the likes of Evolution Martial Arts in Taunton and Reading-based Thames Valley Taekwondo.

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Vale TKD instructor Carl Davis told this newspaper: “It wasn’t to be expected, the reason being there are some very good schools in the UK.

“They have full-time centres that they’re training out of and have some very good students.

“We had nine fewer competitors than the schools below us, and having fewer numbers puts you at a disadvantage, so I didn’t think that we were going to win.

“What was evident when it came to the medal table was that we had less bronze and silver medals, but almost double in gold medals.

“The extent of the gold medals is the reason why we won. The students have to want it on top of me pushing them.

“When you’ve got 40 or 50 people cheering you on, it gives you that extra gear. The atmosphere grew and it was a collective effort.

“I’m very quick to say I couldn’t have done it without the support that I get. It’s hard work and a collective effort which drives us on.”

Noah Hurst (right) from Vale Taekwondo (Image: Vale TKD) In 2024 alone, Vale TKD students have won more than 100 gold medals across the five national championships.

Davis said: “The 100 gold medals are over five competitions, which shows we are consistent in our performances. To keep on top is a lot harder than to get to the top.

“Before Covid, we had never won an overall school. I didn’t think I had the ability to push my students to get to number one.

“When we came out of Covid though, we hit the ground running, and I think it stemmed from our efforts during Covid, and the momentum is still building.

“We’ve moved venue to a larger sports hall, which means more variety in what we offer and we can also train for longer.

“Offering more classes improves yourself, and if you surround yourself with success and a good attitude, then it rubs off.

“I want to keep that going and stay on top. I will never get tired of winning and having this feeling is what will keep me going for as long as I can.”