British taekwondo enjoyed a successful first day at the European Championships yesterday, which kicked-off in the Italian capital of Rome.
Caroline Fisher (Scorpion Taekwondo Club, Doncaster) won a silver medal in the woman’s -51Kg category by beating Israel in the semi-finals only to lose out to Brigitte Yague of Spain by 7 points to 2 in the final. Fisher commented, “Obviously I am disappointed to get to the final and lose out but I’m extremely happy to get a silver medal. Brigitte is a top class fighter and is now a four-time European Champion. I’ve worked hard for this medal and I must say a big thank you to my club coach in Doncaster , Peter Adamson, as well as the GB team who have supported me here.”
Louise Mair (Elgin Taekwondo Club, Scotland) took a bronze medal, losing out to Azerbaijan respectively. Mair, who lost her semi-final match by only two points having overcome Spain in the quarter final on sudden death, said, “It was a tough semi-final and most of my matches have been very close. The electronic chest protectors have proved difficult to score against compared to what I am used to but I’m pleased with a bronze medal never the less.”
Gary Hall, Performance Director for British Taekwondo, added, “I am really pleased with the way the team has performed today as three medals from 4 competitors is a good start. It is encouraging to see Caroline on the winner’s podium and making a name for herself which she thoroughly deserves. We’ve got 4 more players to compete over the next here days so let’s see how we get on.”
The Female squad taking part in the European Championships in Rome is as follows:
FEMALE
Louise Mair -47Kgs Elgin Taekwondo Club, Scotland
Caroline Fisher -51Kgs Scorpion Taekwondo Club, Doncaster