Broughton Astley karate students set to represent England at European Championships
Two Broughton Astley karate students are set to represent England at the Wadokai European Karate Championships in Cyprus later this year.
Edie Righton, 14, and Ariana Asgar, 13, are both members of the Simon Coope Karate School, which has classes in Broughton Astley and across Leicestershire.
Edie and Ariana are among six members from the karate school who are set to represent their country in Cyprus in September 25 to 27.
Edie has represented England before, while Ariana is set to make her international debut.
Both compete in the wado discipline of karate, which is one of the four main karate styles recognised in Japan.
They have both achieved their black belts this year, which is the highest and most prestigious rank in karate.
Edie’s journey with wado-ryu karateka began in 2020, and since then she has achieved more than 50 medals in both the kata and kumite disciplines at various national and international tournaments.
She represented England at the European Karate Championships in Cyprus two years ago, coming home with a silver in team kumite and a bronze in team kata.
Last year at a competition in Italy she won individual gold in both the kata and kumite disciplines.
Ariana began training in karate at the age of six, but since starting competition a year ago has achieved multiple podium finishes at regional and national level and has now received her first international selection.
Phil Wrighton from the karate school said: “Ariana’s selection for the European Championships marks a significant achievement and reflects her dedication, discipline, and hard work.
“As a young Muslim girl in competitive karate, Ariana is also helping to represent and inspire others from underrepresented backgrounds within the sport.
“With her continued commitment and passion, she is quickly establishing herself as a rising talent to watch.”