Evolution win big in Portugal

A Glossop based martial arts club recently attended the 2024 WKC World Championships, coming away with a number of medals.

Evolution Martial Arts in Hadfield made the trip to Albufeira, Portugal, earlier this month, with their fight team of four picking up a whopping 13 medals, including seven golds. 

Among the fight team were the club's owner, Kelly Buxton, who came away with two golds and a silver; Kelly’s daughter, Madison, who picked up three golds and one silver; Leah Meehan, who won bronze; and finally, 11-year-old Demi Walsh who won an astonishing five medals- two gold and three silver. 

Club owner Kelly is no stranger to the World Championships, having competed in numerous tournaments in the past, but she says this year was extra special: 

“It was a fantastic week for us,” Kelly told the Chronicle. 

“We had 11-year-old Demi with us who was competing in her first-ever World Championships, and for her to come away with five medals was just tremendous. 

“As well as that we had Leah, who has only ever competed in one World Championships before this one, and she picked up a medal too which was amazing.” 

As well as acting as both a coach and a referee at the competition, club owner Kelly also competed in Portugal, adding a couple more medals to her already impressive tally: 

“It can take its toll sometimes,” the 5th Dan Black Belt told the Chronicle. 

“It gets a bit much doing all three roles, but I just want to try and stay involved for as long as I can. 

“I want to show my kids that if I can do it, they can too.” 

Kelly’s daughter, Madison, who was part of the four strong team that competed earlier this month, has no doubt taken inspiration from her mum’s achievements. 

Despite being just 15 years of age, Madison already has an abundance of experience at this level, having competed since she was seven. 

“She’s absolutely smashing it at the minute,” Madison’s mum Kelly told the Chronicle. 

“She’s been so consistent this year- I think her attitude towards training has really changed. 

“We’ve just had a gruelling 12-week training camp in the run up to the worlds which involved getting up at 6am to go for a run most mornings, and there was no moaning from her side!  

“I think that’s been the difference, she knows now that she has to put the work in if she wants to be successful.” 

Evolution Martial Arts, who recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary, offer classes for ages 3+ all the way up to adults. 

The club also offer ladies only classes, meaning there is something for everyone six days a week. 

To book a two-week free trial contact them on 01457 855 105 or drop them a message via their Facebook or What's App.