US Open wins for brother and sister

TWO kickboxing siblings who train in Backwell won their fighting divisions at the US Open.

Aston and Cory Cook from Felton were victorious at the event at Lake Buena Vista Florida, which saw competitors from 41 countries compete in 420 different divisions.

Cory Cook started his 8-9 year-old intermediate division with a tought first fight, but got into his stride to make his way into the final.

After five gruelling fights, he proved victorious, using his quick movement and hand speed to beat his opponents.

Aston Cook faced some tough competition, particularly from the American fighters, in her 14-15 year-old black belt division.

She was shocked by the kicking ability of the US competitors but soon settled into her own fighting style.

Cook used the 6x6m areas to her advantage by moving around and surprising her opponents with fierce hand technique attacks.

She grew stronger from bout to bout and after five tough fights was crowned champion, and was commended by referees and spectators for her sharp hand combinations.

Both fighters train at Martial Lifestyle Kung Fu and Kickboxing Club every Thursday at Backwell Football Club, as well as training at Martial Lifestyles headquarters in Redland, Bristol.

Martial Lifestyle founder and former World IAKSA kickboxing champion Andy Cleeves said: “We are extremely proud of both their achievements.

“Both students have worked tremendously hard to achieve this success and for two English fighters to win the US Open from one club is phenomenal.

“Along with their peers they both show great dedication and enthusiasm towards their fitness and training and we would love them to receive more recognition for their efforts as we have some of the country’s best up and coming talent at our club.”