Four-time taekwondo Olympian Sarah Stevenson MBE is to lead two training workshops in the Island thanks to sponsorship from Celton Manx.
The 2011 taekwondo world champion, now retired and working as a coach on UK Sport’s world class performance programme, will be accompanied by her personal trainer, Steve Jenkins.
The first session will be held on Saturday June 15th at Onchan’s community centre, the second on Sunday June 16th at the National Sports Centre, Douglas.
The two-day event has been organised by Manx Taekwondo president Rod Nielsen, after he built strong links through his volunteering activities with the British taekwondo team during last year’s London Olympics.
Mr Nielsen, who holds a black belt in the sport, said: ‘To have secured sponsorship from such a well-respected supporter of the local community as Celton Manx is a great honour for us. And of course we’re equally delighted to have 2008 bronze medallist Sarah Stevenson conduct these two workshops. Since she retired Sarah has devoted all her energies to sharing her experience and giving back so much to the sport that saw her become a world-class figure in taekwondo. To have someone of Sarah’s stature lead these sessions is a tremendous coup for Manx Taekwondo.’
Celton Manx executive director Bill Mummery said: ‘Sarah has been a trailblazer for the sport and set an example, especially to young people, that with dedication anything is possible. Her passion to inspire others and help young athletes achieve their personal goals mirrors the Celton Manx approach of drawing on the power of business to do good in the community. For us this means providing the support so people of all ages and abilities may experience the sense of achievement that comes through sporting endeavour at whatever level, no matter how modest.
‘Sarah and Rod are both working to increase participation and make sport accessible to all, also to develop life skills, objectives we wholeheartedly endorse. We wish them every success for what looks set to be a memorable weekend in furthering the development of taekwondo in the Island.’
For more details, contact Rod Nielsen 07624 436181, email manx.taekwondo@hotmail.com or follow the club on Facebook: Manx Taekwondo.
Photo - Bill Mummery (centre left) and Rod Nielsen (centre right) with Manx Taekwondo students.
