The Chief Instructor of Fighting Dragons Karate Association (FDKA) has voiced his delight at the success of his students at tournament and European level over the past two months.
Nathan Bishop, who has been involved in kickboxing for nearly 38 years, started the family-owned martial arts association four years ago.
Some of Bishop’s students have stood out amongst the rest with Jack Turner, Mary Parry and Ieuan Rees all enjoying triumphs on the biggest stages.
On their success, Bishop said: “I take huge pride in helping all of my students fulfil their potential. I am immensely proud of all of the students because they have worked so hard over the last few months.
“Jack has only been training for six months but is a real talent. He competed in the WUMA European championships last month and ended up in a final against his teammate Zander Weller. Jack was eventually victorious and is now European Champion for 2019.
“Mary is coming up to her second year of training with us and has since become British champion, which is an unbelievable achievement.
“Ieuan on the other hand has overcame severe anxiety and fought his heart out in memory of his grandfather Mr Snelling, who was a legend and founder of Snelling’s Gym in the Aber Valley.
“The inspiration worked as Ieuan is also now a European Champion. I’m sure his grandfather would be very proud of him.
Another of the bright lights shining though at FDKA is Bishop’s youngest son Dylan, who is also being trained by his stepbrother Garin Davies.
Speaking about Dylan, Bishop said: “He’s currently in college and works part-time, while juggling his karate commitments.
“He’s since become a 75kg Full Contact champion and has given me a lot of joy during my time teaching him.
“I’ve recently had spinal surgery so have got my stepson Garin in to help. He’s certainly taken the workload off my shoulders and he has been able to pass on his experience since becoming the 2018/19 World Champion.”