James BovingtonTwo East Leeds sisters who train at Leeds gym Bad Company won medals at the WBC international championships held in Verona, Italy while competing for Team England led by their coaches Lisa Houghton-Smith and her husband Richard. The English team came first in the medal table of 70 countries represented by 900 athletes.
‘Everyone’s overjoyed,’ said Richard Smith. ‘Team England smashed it with 54 fighters winning 86 of 113 bouts and coming away with 44 medals including 24 gold. Bad Company’s Fergus Smith, Charlie Bedford and Keevah Render won golds. Harper Render performed confidently in her demonstration bouts. We’re proud of them for shining in a tournament with an increasingly impressive performance standard.’
Keevah, 12, was proud of her gold. ‘I enjoyed the build up to the competition and then making friends and supporting teammates despite the heat.’ Father Stephen Render commented that ‘the tournament was an incredible experience for both our daughters. They loved testing themselves on the world stage learning resilience, focus and the value of preparation. Thai Boxing’s given them confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of self. At Bad Company they’re surrounded by world class coaches and fighters pushing them to be their best.’
‘I enjoyed my time in Italy,’ said younger sister Harper. ‘I made lots of new friends from other countries. I was the youngest member of the England team and gained lots of experience. I enjoyed fighting in the ring in front of large crowds and doing the Thai ring dance for the first time.’
The girls’ trip was self-funded as Thai boxing receives little official financial support. However, Keevah raised some funds climbing Mount Snowden. Anyone wanting to sponsor Bad Company or individual fighters should contact the gym on 07885 270267 or locate Bad Company on social media or e-mail rmsbadco@gmail.com .
