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19 March 2024
Renshinkan Shorinjiryu is a traditional form of karate practised in schools across the world. It was introduced to England in 1985. On Sunday 10th March, 225 athletes came together to take part in the 2024 International Friendship Tournament at the Triangle Leisure Centre, Burgess Hill. For the first time ever, a contingent from Japan including 10th Dan Grand Master Tamotsu Yuzo, also visited to take part.
Representing Burgess Hill Girls were Amber Lewis, Ashiana Turney, Aurelia Strand, Catherine Imms, Esme, Genie Carline Twinn-Banks, Georgia Harling, Jasmine Topcuoglu, Lana Lane, Melissa Coleman, Olivia Diamvutu, Rosie Topcuoglu, Sanaya Mohandas, Scarlett Rose, Tazmeen Ahamed, and Zarah Bowles. The team finished third overall and picked up seven individual medals in their different competition categories: golds for Esme and Zarah, silver for Sanaya and bronzes for Ashiana, Jasmine, Lana, and Melissa.
It was also a special tournament for the Sensei of Burgess Hill Girls Dojo and GB Renshinken England leader Julia Turney as she was awarded 7th Dan, becoming the only female leader to ever achieve this honour. She said:
“I am tremendously proud of the Burgess Hill Girls Team – they continue to punch way above their weight for such a small dojo, and this is shown by their strength in depth.
But, more importantly, their etiquette, deportment and good sportsmanship was outstanding. They were impeccable, and a great example to everyone.”
