A WEST FIFE martial arts club has been back in the medals after taking down the opposition at a regional competition.

Members of JKA (Japanese Karate Association) Dalgety Bay competed at the JKA Scotland East Region Championships on September 8 and proved 13 isn't always unlucky, as they posted that number of podium places.

The event, held at Dunfermline High School, saw eight students from the dojo take to the mat and resulted in a clean sweep of gold medals for the impressive Lucy Hull.

She claimed victory in the kata, kumite and team kata events to continue her impressive form throughout the year, which included winning a hat-trick of golds at the JKA Scotland Scottish Championships in May, and the opportunity to compete at the JKA Junior European Championships in Serbia.

She was followed onto the top of the podium by Conor Beggs – who achieved his 1st Dan black belt earlier in the year – as he took home golds in kumite and kata, as well as the best junior competitor cup for the event.

Blair Flynn won gold in both the kumite and team kata while Colin Flynn – named best senior at the Scottish Championships after winning two gold and one silver medal – was a gold medallist in the kumite.

Further honours arrived for Calum Bruce, who won gold in the team kata; Ryan Hogan, who took silver in the kata; Callum Flynn, who earned bronze in the kumite; and Tristan Simrick, who was a double bronze medallist in the kata and kumite.

The students' achievements continues a highly successful year for the dojo, which is based within Hillend Industrial Estate and led by instructor Sensei Bert Stewart, 5th Dan Black Belt.

Established for more than 30 years, its classes offer training in a refined form of Shotokan Karate, a traditional style developed from various martial arts, and popularised by Gichin Funakoshi.

In addition to learning the techniques associated with the martial art, training can also help with weight loss, an increase in strength, flexibility, self-esteem and confidence, and offers continued learning and personal development.

The club is actively welcoming new members of all ages and abilities, including complete beginners, and anyone interested can attend a class and either join in or watch on the first evening.

For more information, contact Sensei Stewart on 07863135269, visit www.jkakaratedalgetybay.co.uk, or the club’s Facebook page.