Belgium Open - No medals this year but an enjoyable trip to end the 2012 Season!!!

Post date: Feb 08, 2013 3:35:0 AM

Four members of the Ken-Bu-Kan Sport Karate team along with eight others from the WIKF National Team took the short trip to Belgium to take part in the 7th Belgium Open Championships. This competition is one of the best on the circuit with quality athletes from all over Europe.

Jay Kirton was in impressive form after recently winning his 6th European title in Greece and looked hungry to win his second Belgium Open Title.  Jay won his first round with ease and looked to be in good shape for a medal position.  In the next round, Jay scored a superb spinning kick to win the bout for a quarter-final place, but unfortunately Jay dislocated his thumb and was unable to continue.  Bad luck for Jay as it looked like he would have gone all way.

Nikkisha Bailey in her first Belgium Open looked small compared to some of the fighters in her section and found it difficult in dealing with the height disadvantage she had losing in the first round. Currently England’s number 1 heavy weight cadet, Nikkisha will need to bounce back quickly to get ready for her trip to Turkey.

Jerome Brown, also a past winner of the Belgium Open, looked completely focused for his event.  Jerome had a bye for the quarter-final and scored first as he battled with his small compact opponent from Luxembourg. Jerome was surprised with the kicking ability of his opponent and became unstuck and unable to stay ahead in the bout, losing to the eventual winner.

Unfortunately, Gavin Bailey pulled out from his event due to injury, but would be back in action at the 21st Senior Karate World Championships in Paris later on in November.