Superstar JoG Student Ellie Keenan triumphs again

Twelve year old John O’Gaunt School student Ellie Keenan competed in the 2024 European International Martial Arts Games in High Wycombe this summer and came away with a whopping medal haul. Ellie entered six categories and won medals in five of them: Bronze in the Kumite fighting and Kata Pairs, and Silver Medals in the Creative Kata, Traditional Japanese Kata and Traditional Weapons.

Using the school gym to train in over the summer, Ellie showed unwavering resilience and a huge amount of courage during the 2 day competition and then got straight back to her training schedule after just a few days away in Germany.

Ellie’s Mum Karen said ‘we’re incredibly proud of her. Ellie is so humble about her achievements. And if her journey inspires other young people, then that makes it even better. She inspires me every day. There’s no stopping her.’

Not only does Ellie compete almost monthly in karate competitions, she also participates in Taekwondo events.  Ellie’s most recent challenge will be her Kibou competition on Sunday 29 September in Marlborough, where she competed in the same categories above, and came away with two Gold Medals and two Silver Medals.

Ellie said, ‘when I started, I never thought I’d get this far, but now I’m here! I’ve had to learn to deal with some losses on the way, but you always learn from those. I sometimes feel nervous before a competition, but as soon as I begin, the focus and confidence step up. And no matter what the outcome, I know I’ve given it my all so I can feel proud of myself, either way.

Ellie’s Headteacher Mr Richard Hawthorne said ‘Ellie is amazing, with a truly Olympian attitude and commitment’ which Ellie quipped, is her goal!

Penny Post
Author: Penny Post

Penny Post is a community notice board serving West Berkshire, Wantage, Swindon, Marlborough and surrounding areas so there

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