A TEN-YEAR-OLD Redditch schoolboy is punching the air in triumph after being crowned a European Thai boxing champion.
George Rowand defeated his Dutch opponent who flew in to face the St Bede’s student for the international Muay Thai challenge belt on Saturday (January 23).
The St Bede’s student travelled to Crewe with his family for the match after stepping in to fight for the title at the last minute after a fellow competitor was injured and had to withdraw.
He’s been over the moon,” said proud mum Becci. “In fact I don’t think he’s come back down since winning – the belt has gone everywhere with him.
“He’s so dedicated and put on the best display on his five-year career.”
George, who is based at Thaitans Martial Arts Academy in Beoley Road West, trains five-days-a-week for at least an hour at a time and sometimes more over the weekend.
The youngster, who is a triplet, is so dedicated to the sport he even misses family parties and outings so he can train.
Becci added: “It’s so lovely he is so dedicated – we hope one day he will reach the Olympics as this is his dream.”
