An Antrim teenager is celebrating after claiming a bronze medal at a competition in Manchester.
Katelynn McCracken competed at the English Karate Federation’s E1 Premier League Series which is aimed at preparing talented athletes to succeed at international level.
She finished third in the KU23 Female Junior Individual Kumite for 16-17 year-olds in the +66kg category, which was won by English competitor Dolby Chelsy.
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Katelynn's teammate, Thomas Bell from Carrickfergus, was also taking part in his first adult event. He put on an impressive performance, narrowly missing out to his English opponent.
And 12-year-old Jamie Gibson’s admirable conduct in his first competition at this level also puts him on firm footing for the future.
Northern Ireland coach James Brunton hailed the performance of the young Northern Ireland team at an elite event.
He said: “Katelynn did very well and almost made it into the final after a succession of good wins in the preliminary rounds. She was competing with the top athletes from across the United Kingdom but was able to hold her own against these formidable opponents.
“Thomas was finding his feet at senior level. His history of wins at junior level and his approach to training for this level of competition means he will soon be a force to be reckoned with.
"Jamie's development of winning techniques and fighting spirit will I’m sure translate into a place on the winner’s rostrum before long."
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