Competitors from Bluewater Taekwondo in Chatham punched and kicked their way to a silver and two bronze medals at a major competition in Toronto.
Lia Rich, 10, and sisters Reese Willder, 13, and Cassie Willder, 14, represented the club on Saturday in the 2019 Toronto Open Taekwondo tournament.
Head Master Kandis Fischer said it was their first competitive tournament and they had a great experience.
"It was a big eye-opener because there were 800 participants in the Toronto area in this competition. So, we were exposed to all sorts of different fighters, very aggressive fighters," said Fischer, adding she is very proud of her young fighters. "We weren't sure what to expect to be honest with you because it was such a big tournament but we are so proud of these girls and what they've accomplished. They've been training for months to get to this tournament," she added.
Fisher said they all fought hard and want to keep competing three to four times a year.
"We're switching gears to a little more competitive nature and some of the kids have shown some interest in that. So, we've been training a little bit harder and trying to get ourselves established in the competitive world," Fischer said.
Rich is a first-degree black belt while the Willder sisters are working toward their black belts.
The club, which trains at the St. Clair College HealthPlex on Tuesdays and Thursdays, teaches students of all ages self-defence, discipline, respect, all about themselves, teamwork, and keeps them fit.