RISING Redditch Thai boxing ace Ellie Pardy is preparing to represent Great Britain in the Unified World Championships thanks to an impressive fund-raising campaign.
The 13-year-old, who attends town-based Thaitans Martial Arts Academy, will compete in the UNIFIED World Finals between October 25-29 after raising £1,900 with the help of her mum Emma Clarke and step dad Robert Clarke.
Competing on the world stage as part of the World Traditional Kickboxing Association GB team will be a fitting reward for Ellie, who has shown immense dedication to the sport since the age of six.
Mum Emma explained: “Thanks to Thai boxing, Ellie is now a very confident girl. She is ranked UK number one in her age and weight and has four UK Open Champion belts, two Sandee Open belts and two English title belts to her name.
“Ellie trains six times a week and every morning does exercise and walks the dog and also exercises before she goes to bed.
“We have had to fund the trip ourselves but we’ve managed to do it and are very grateful for everyone’s help.”
Ellie, who is also a keen athlete, raised the funds thanks to a race night, JustGiving page, fund-raising form, collections tubs in food outlets and a cake sale at school.
Emma added: “Ellie is very fortunate to have three sponsors – Pardy’s Dairies, Class Catering and Arden Spas – which help massively.
“Robert and myself are extremely proud of her dedication and everything she sacrifices to get to where she is and wish her lots of luck.”
