Belfast schoolgirl celebrates karate medal success at Banzai Cup in Berlin

Belfast schoolgirl, Alexandria (Alex) Crowe, is celebrating after winning her first European medal in karate.

The 12-year-old Victoria College pupil scooped a bronze medal at the Banzai Cup in Berlin. Alex was part of a seven-strong team from Brunton Karate who took part in the championships in the German capital.

The Banzai Cup attracted almost 1,000 athletes from 23 countries across Europe, Egypt and Indonesia. During the two days of competition athletes battled in out over eight fighting arenas for a coveted place on the medal podium.

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Alex and her teammates are trained by Irish World Karate Federation coach James Brunton, who enjoyed a successful international fighting career and now devotes his time to nurturing young talent.

The coach was pleased with Alex's performance and that of the whole team at this prestigious event. "For Alex to take bronze at her first European event is a major achievement," James said. "Although the standard was very high, she pulled out all the stops to earn her place in the semi finals".

"The whole team's performance was very good," he continued. "All the athletes who attended this competion can be very proud of their conduct on the mat" Jamed said. "They have learned a lot from the experience and we now know what we have to work on for the future".

Anyone wishing to learn karate with James can contact him on 07513 837557 or visit www.irishkarate.com

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