Four young martial artists from Woking are preparing to represent England at the ICO World Championships in France this October – but they need the community’s help to get there.

Jude, 11, Lukas, 15, Ethan, 15, and Harrison, 13, from Martial X Academy, earned their places on the England team after qualifying at the English Championships.

They will compete in fighting and martial forms, putting years of dedication and training to the test against competitors from around the world.

But representing their country comes at a cost, and the youngsters are now fundraising to help cover competition entry fees, team kits, medical requirements, travel and accommodation.

Jude said: “I feel proud that all my hard work has paid off and I feel excited that I have been chosen to represent England.”

Project XIII Media
Jude, 11, is preparing to represent England at the ICO World Championships in France this October. Picture: Project XIII Media (Jude, 11, is preparing to represent England at the ICO World Championships in France this October. Picture: Project XIII Media)

Lukas added: “It’s an honour to represent England and I’m excited to compete in the world championships.”

Ethan said: “I can’t wait to see the culmination of all of my hours of hard work and dedication in training, and for it to be put on display on the world stage.”

Harrison said: “I’m proud of all the effort I have put in to my martial arts and I’m excited to be going to the world championships.”

Head coach and World Champion Cerize Power said their selection reflected years of commitment.

“I am unbelievably proud of every athlete who has qualified,” she said. “This isn't something that happens by chance. It represents years of hard work, early mornings, long training sessions, sacrifices and an unwavering commitment to being the very best they can be.”

She said watching the youngsters develop from beginners into England representatives had been “incredibly special”.

Martial X Academy trains children from three-and-a-half years old through to adults, helping students develop confidence, fitness, focus and resilience alongside their martial arts skills.