ONCE again the trip was worthwhile for the Milford Haven Karate Club (MHKC) as they travelled to Cowbridge for the penultimate leg of the Welsh Karate League.

MHKC came back with some cracking results as Roland Adams, who only started competing this year, stormed to the final and beat the current overall league leader 3-0.

It was a top display in only his third competition, and sets up a deciding fight for the overall ranking title in March.

Andrew John fought in a tough under 18s section and came within a whisker of winning gold.

His final fight was tied and then went to a sudden death first to score, and after two minutes there was still no result so it went to a refereeing call, and John lost by a 2-1 decision.

Josh Whatling and Kaine Bambrough-Lewis both got to the semi finals and came close to pulling off major upsets. However, both lost narrowly to two reigning World champions.

MHKC head instructor Kevin John said: “What can I say?

“The results say it all, they are finally starting to believe in themselves, and the hard work is paying off.

“The final event is in Merthyr in March and we have Roland Adams in contention to win the overall title and Andrew John who will be fighting for a top three finish.

“The three young boys were fighting amongst World Champions and came close to beating them, hopefully this will give them the inspiration to reach the highest level.”

Anyone interested in traditional karate, whether it be competitive or full or semi contact, can visit the club’s Facebook page or contact Kevin on 07581 044929.