18/05/2026
Another Weekend, Another Competition!
Shinzoku Ryu was on the road again—this time at the 21 & Under Leeds Open Championships. This marked our 8th competition of the year, and once again, our students did not disappoint.
Representing our Mini Dragons and Juniors were Taylen, Isla, Penelope, Raine, Millie, Halle, and first-time competitor Oliver.
Kata
First up were our Kata competitors: Millie, Isla, and Penelope.
Millie competed in the 7 years & under mixed category (1 of 15 competitors). She narrowly missed out on the final this time, but her confidence is growing with every competition—those medals will be coming soon!
Penelope, in the 8–9 years mixed category, faced a very strong field and missed the final by just 0.1 points. Another great performance, and her strength and confidence continue to build.
Isla stepped up into the 10–12 years category, delivering a solid performance. While she narrowly missed the overall final, she secured a fantastic Bronze medal in her category.
Kumite
Next onto the mats were our Kumite competitors.
Raine and Halle competed in the 4–5 years Open Grade category. Raine showed great composure with three excellent performances, just being edged out in the final to take a well-earned Silver medal. Halle showed real determination, continuing forward despite taking a few knocks, and secured a Bronze medal.
Isla and Penelope then competed in the 8–9 years category. In another highly competitive section, they didn’t medal this time, but both came off the mats with confidence and determination.
Finally, Taylen competed in the 13–14 years Ippon & Sanbon categories—a tough division full of experienced fighters. He held his own in both but unfortunately missed out on medals this time.
Juruken
In Juruken, Raine, Halle, and Millie showcased their skills on the kick bag in another strong field.
Raine reached the final but was narrowly beaten, earning another Silver medal.
Isla and Penelope, competing in their section, both secured Bronze medals.
Isla then stepped up again into the 10–12 years category and added another Bronze to her collection.
Oliver’s Debut
After a long day, it was finally time for Oliver to compete. Having waited patiently for 6 hours for his category, he stepped onto the mats for his very first competition—understandably a little apprehensive. However, he rose to the occasion brilliantly, reaching the final and securing a fantastic Silver medal on debut!
A huge well done to everyone!
You were all outstanding and should be incredibly proud of what you’re achieving. Whether you’re coming home with medals or not, every competition brings valuable experience. With the determination and commitment you continue to show, those medals will keep rolling in!
Medal tally
Raine 🥈🥈
Oliver 🥈
Isla 🥉🥉🥉
Penelope 🥉
Halle🥉
