The ITF Scotland National Team have recently returned form the XIV Junior and XX Senior World Championships 2017, held on the 11th – 16th October 2017 in “The Citywest International Conference and Events Centre”.
The team travelled with 42 competitors, 17 coaches, 2 umpires and 21 supporters. Arriving at their hotel late Monday night, then following a successful weigh in on the Tuesday morning, they then went on to some light pre-competition training, before the spectacular opening ceremony that evening; where the competitors and spectators were treated to some contemporary and traditional Irish dance and music. The biggest applause of the evening coming with the entrance of the Scottish team, entering the arena, piped in by two of our athletes, Kieran Cain & Hayden McAvoy.
Over five days of competition our athletes performed with true spirit, grit and determination. Many competitors were new to the World stage with all giving it their best effort. The highlight of the week being Mr. Ian Ford with his debut to International Competition rising to the top of his division, and earning the title World Champion 2017.
Overall the Scotland team brought home 1 Gold and 3 Bronze from the event, placing 16th in the overall rankings from 58 countries.
Medals;
GOLD & WORLD CHAMPION:
Ian Ford (-50kg Junior Male Sparring)
BRONZE:
Katrina Carr (Senior Female -50kg Sparring)
Stephanie Willis (-62kg Senior Female Sparring)
Gilles Brown (-85kg Senior Male Sparring)
A selection of pictures are attached. Photo credits – G. Craik. More can be viewed here.
