Sheffield kickboxers win seven medals in Athens World Kickboxing Championships

Six members of the Powers Martial Arts Centre, Stannington, travelled to the Greek capital, bringing home seven medals.

More than 800 fighters from 30-plus countries took part and the Sheffield group doubled the medals haul compared to last year’s world event in Germany. They won two silvers and five bronzes.

Matt Griffin took a bronze and silver, Nathan Riddle a bronze, Nicolae Pirogan bronze and silver and56-year-old Tony Crookes fought in the Masters Division and won bronze.

To add to Sheffield’s successes, Brendan Needham from fellow city club YMKA Gyms won a bronze.

Club chief Paul Powers said “I am really proud of all the Sheffield K1 kickboxing fighters. They did themselves our gym their country and our city proud.

“And special thanks to Sheffield’s Dave Needham who was England’s head coach and organised the national squad.”

* Medalists pictured above are, left to right: Jake Russell,Nathan Riddle, Matt Griffin , Nicolae Pirogan, Tony Crookes,Blayne Armitage, Mike Brunt .