A BLACK belt in martial arts is kicking his way to the top after being invited to train for his country for the second year.
Laurence Jackson School student Kallum Locker has already represented England at taekwondo competitions in Italy and Slovenia against competitors from all over Europe.
The Loftus Martial Arts Club member has again been invited to travel to Swindon every two weeks for England training camps to hone his skills.
Kallum, a year 9 student, took up taekwondo eight years ago after being encouraged by his granddad, Paul Bateman, who used to compete and now coaches the sport. In the past eight years he has won around 60 medals, half of which have been gold.
“Training with England is a lot more strenuous but has really improved my technique,” said Kallum, of Guisborough, who would like to be a professional kickboxer one day. “It is nerve-racking fighting in Europe but a great experience.
“You compete to gain points not to knock your opponent out but it is a contact sport and I have ended up with bloody noses, a broken toe and bruised ribs.
“I try to stay mentally focused and not think about the size of my opponent. Everyone gets nervous no matter how good you are. If they are bigger, heavier, taller, I’m fast, use a lot of movement and keep my hands high.
“Going forward I am set on kickboxing as an end goal and after that perhaps a coach or a personal trainer.”
Assistant headteacher Marc Tyzack said: “Kallum is utterly dedicated to his training and competitions and thoroughly deserves his success. Everyone is so proud to see him represent his country and we are sure he will be successful in the future.”
