06-05-2025
Girl from Cumbria to represent Britain at 'prestigious' international tournament
A girl from Cumbria is preparing to represent Britain at a 'prestigious' international tournament this weekend.
Gabby Pettigrew, a 12-year-old from Kendal, will be competing at the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships in Sheikh Zayed Sport City in Fujairah of the United Arab Emirates.
The tournament will take place between May 10 and 14 with Gabby representing Core Taekwondo Academy.
Coach and dad Steven Pettigrew said: "It's amazing news and we're so proud of her.
"And we've got to say a big congratulations to all the other cadets who have been selected."
Gabby will be hoping to continue her good form when she represents Britain (Image: Steven Pettigrew)
Gabby will be joined by four other young Britons in the tournament - Nyah Cannon from Nottingham, Henry Hunter and Luis Harrison from Quest Taekwondo in Sheffield, and Joshua Sherratt of BTS Maddogs in Stoke-on-Trent.
The upcoming event will provide a platform for the 'stars of the future' to showcase their skills on the biggest stage, with athletes coming from across the world to compete for the coveted prize.
Gabby will be looking to continue her fine from the recent European Club Championships in Estonia, and will be competing in the -29kg weight division.
Gabby is one of five British competitors aiming to do the nation proud (Image: Steven Pettigrew)
For Steven and Core Taekwondo, Gabby's success is just the latest positive news, with the academy moving into larger premises at Stramongate to welcome more students than ever before.
"Our old do-jang has served us well and it's sad to see it go as a lot of hard work was put into it," Steven added.
"But we have outgrown it now and needed somewhere bigger to help us move forward with our aim and vision of being able to offer a top quality venue, as well as coaching to enhance our members' training experience.
"We have had a great start to the project, completing our smaller hall all thanks to all our fabulous volunteers, coaches, committee, parents, kids, our sponsors, and also all those who've donated items."
You can find out more about Core Taekwondo and any openings for new members by visiting the website here.
