Trophy haul for Sodbury martial arts team

A MARTIAL arts team from Chipping Sodbury is celebrating after its members won gold, silver and bronze trophies at a national competition.

Several students from Chipping Sodbury Tang Soo Do, which trains at the sports centre in Bowling Road every Tuesday and Thursday, took part in the World Tang Soo Do Association National Championship in Nottingham in April.

They returned with medals for patterns and sparring in junior and adult categories, and several students have also been promoted to higher ranks after successfully grading.

Instructor Tim Butcher said: “I’m proud of our members and their dedication.

“While it’s lovely to win medals and earn a promotion, it’s more important to follow the tenets of the art. This includes integrity and perseverance – which they have shown.”

Tim, 50, is a 5th Dan who started training at the age of seven when his neighbour brought him along to a class.

He first competed in the World Championships at the age of 16, started teaching at 17 and retired from competitions as a World Champion.

World champion student Becky Sheppard said: “The club is massively family-orientated and a very supportive group, with everyone working to help each other improve.”

Tim, a self-employed painter and decorator, said several siblings and children and parents train together.

He said: “It’s a fun activity to do together and many families have spoken about how it’s strengthened their bond.”

Tang Soo Do is one of the oldest martial arts systems and promotes self-defence, physical and spiritual health and all-round personal development.

Martial arts film star Chuck Norris is a student of the art and displayed his prowess in films such as the classic 1970s film The

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