It was a weekend filled with thrilling combat and fierce competition as a team of martial artists hailing from the Stealth Black Belt Academy centres in Coalville and Hathern descended upon the World Karate and Kickboxing Commission (WKKC) England IPPON Championships.

The team was made up of the best fighters from each centre - aptly called "Top Gun" - and were made up of 11 talented fighters.

Under the expert guidance of Top Gun team Coach Kieran Smith, the team, spanning ages from 12 to 42, ventured into multiple fight categories, leaving an indelible mark on the championships.

In a spectacular showcase of skill, the Stealth team notched up an impressive array of accolades, with the final tally reading as follows:

Two first Place Trophies, Three Silver Medals, Two Bronze Medals and one coveted Open Weight cash prize.

The individual successes were equally remarkable:

• Seth Gardner (12) secured third place in Points Fighting.
• Will Robson (15) claimed third place in Points Fighting.
• Jack Bromley (15) emerged victorious, clinching first place in Continuous Fighting.
• Billy Tebbett (16) displayed unyielding determination, securing second place in Points Fighting.
• Helen Sharp (42) conquered the Open Weight Points Fighting category and secured a second Place in Points Fighting U65kg.
• Ashley Moore (19) demonstrated his mettle, securing a well-deserved second Place in Continuous Fighting.

Among these exceptional performances, some truly outstanding moments stood out.

Billy Tebbett's remarkable comeback, overcoming a 7-2 deficit in the first half of his bout, demonstrated remarkable skill and tenacity, ultimately resulting in a superb 11-9 victory.

Will Robson showcased textbook precision in Points Fighting, navigating a highly competitive open weight category to secure the bronze, an achievement that was nothing short of magical.

Helen Sharp, in her first weighted bout, captured silver before storming to victory in the final of the women's open weight category, finishing with a commanding four-point lead and claiming both the title and the top cash prize.

In the aftermath of their extraordinary achievements, academy head coaches Kieran Smith and Nikki Hughes expressed their heartfelt congratulations to their fighters.

They conveyed their immense pride, remarking: "Congratulations to all of our fighters for a superb performance. You have all made Stealth very proud."

The coaches also extended their gratitude to the students and families whose unwavering support fuelled the team's success, and they commended the WKKC for hosting a fantastic and well-organised event.

It was indeed a triumphant weekend for the local martial artists, leaving an indelible mark on the WKKC England IPPON Championships and serving as an inspiration to aspiring fighters at the Coalville and Hathern super centres.

For more information about the Academy please click HERE.