Rye teenagers George Cook and Chase Skinner attended the World Kickboxing Organisation (WKO) World Championships in Barnsley in August. George won gold in K1 (kata) and silver in kickboxing. Chase won silver in kickboxing and bronze in kata.
Chase also demonstrated kata, basic punches and kicks and showed some weapons demonstrations, along with all her medals, at the Green Waves festival at Tilling Green last weekend to encourage other youngsters to try out the sport she is so passionate about.
Sean Kinsella from SKMA Academy Rye, where both children train, said, “What a weekend for our Sean Kinsella Marshall Arts students. Rye fighters George Cook, 16, and Chase Skinner 12, travelled to Barnsley to compete at the WKO Open World Championships 2026 hosted at the Metrodome Complex.
“The SKMA coaches were Robert Cook, (1st Degree) and Jodie Churchett (2nd Dan) alongside legendary supportive SKMA parents; first up was George Cook.
“George became WKO K1 Open World Champion 2026 (15yrs-16yrs, B class, under 64kg). George also took silver in a very close kickboxing match, and showed us all with these fantastic results that perseverance pays off.
“Next up was Chase Skinner competing in 11yrs-12yrs, kickboxing under 35kg. Chase put up a phenomenal performance taking silver with a split decision loss in the final. The growth in Chase’s fighting skills is extremely good and she is one to watch in the future. Chase also took a well-deserved bronze in kata.
“We are very proud of these two talented competitors representing SKMA against some very tough competition. We would like to thank SKMA coaches and supportive parents: without your help these dreams could never be reached.”
Image Credits: Sherry Skinner , Juliet Duff , Robert Cook .