MEMBERS of Midsomer Norton TAGB Tae Kwon-Do have made an outstanding start to the year 2026 following a highly successful performance at the South West Championships, the club’s first competition of the year.

A total of 16 students represented the club, competing against teams from across the region in patterns and sparring events. The championships proved to be a landmark occasion, with Midsomer Norton finishing an incredible fifth overall out of nearly 80 clubs attending, placing them within the top 20 clubs for the first time.

This result marks a significant step forward from last year and reflects the dedication, commitment, and teamwork shown by everyone involved at the local club.

Alongside the impressive overall placing, the club celebrated a strong set of individual and team results throughout the day.

Competition highlights included the following: Lucy Barr – Silver Individual Patterns, Gold Mixed Team Patterns, Gold Team Patterns; Stefan Barr – Bronze Individual Patterns, Gold Mixed Team Patterns, Gold TAG Team Sparring; Stu Bell – Gold Individual Sparring (two divisions), Gold TAG Team Sparring; Sydne Bell – Silver Individual Sparring, Gold Mixed Team Patterns, Silver Team Patterns; Vikki Batten – Bronze Individual Patterns; Henry Smith – Bronze Individual Sparring; Matteo Dan – Silver TAG Team Sparring; Victoria Smith – Gold Individual Sparring; Arielle Barr – Silver Individual Patterns; Kobi Bennett – Bronze Individual Sparring; Kelsey Chalmers – Silver Individual Patterns; Daisy Corbett-Stringer – Bronze Individual Sparring; Milo Brooks – Bronze Individual Sparring.

For several students, this event marked their first ever Tae Kwon-Do competition. Stepping onto the competition floor for the first time, they showed great courage, determination, and sportsmanship, gaining valuable experience that will support their future development in the sport, hopefully, for many years to come.

Dexter Ovens, Albie Taylor, and Poppy Robson may not have returned home with medals on this occasion, but their contribution was no less important. All three worked hard throughout the day, supported their teammates, and embraced the experience, demonstrating the positive attitude and resilience that Tae Kwon-Do aims to develop.

The club would also like to extend a sincere thank you to the parents and families who attended the championships. Their support from the sidelines played a huge role in encouraging the competitors and creating a positive team atmosphere throughout the event.

With such a strong start to the year, Midsomer Norton TAGB Tae Kwon-Do is now looking ahead to the rest of 2026 with plenty of confidence. The club continues to welcome new members and encourages anyone who has ever thought about trying martial arts to get involved.

Tae Kwon-Do offers a wide range of benefits, including improved fitness, increased confidence, self-discipline, and practical self-defence skills, all within a friendly, supportive, and inclusive environment. Beginners of all ages are always welcome, and no previous experience is required before you join thge club.

Anyone interested is invited to attend a free trial session to discover what Tae Kwon-Do can offer.

For more information, please contact Ms. Fober on 07983 104286 or email [email protected].

Congratulations once again go to all competitors on an excellent performance. It has been a fantastic start to the year for Midsomer Norton TAGB Tae Kwon-Do, and the club is looking forward to another exciting and successful year ahead.

Ms Edyta Fober 3rd Dan Instructor, Midsomer Norton TAGB Tae Kwon-Do.