A rising star from Westbury has impressed judges at a recent Kendo tournament in Budapest.
Chloe Leigh, 17, has been practising Kendo—a Japanese martial art using two-handed bamboo swords, derived from the fighting techniques of ancient samurai warriors—for five years.
She travelled to Budapest to take part in the 30th Hungary Sakura Cup between 11th and 13th April.
Chloe’s grandmother, Susanne, said, “Chloe had a fantastic weekend, there were 196 competitors in total with 51 in her age group, she got to the quarter finals in the Junior category and being the ‘last girl standing’. She fought with great spirit, winning some really tough draws, before being beaten by the eventual winner in the quarter finals.
“She was invited to compete in the youth women’s age group 18-21, bear in mind Chloe is only 17. She again fought brilliantly securing herself a bronze medal; she was only beaten by the winner.”
Chloe is currently fundraising to help cover travel and training costs after being selected to represent Great Britain at the European Kendo Championships.
Chloe said, “I am really humbled to have been given the chance to compete and thank the White Horse News readers who have donated to my page so far. I fought hard and tried my best to make everyone proud.”
Chloe’s next kendo tournament will be in Ghent in Belgium on 4th to 5th May and says she would be very grateful to anyone who considers donating to her fundraiser.
To support Chloe, visit www.gofundme.com/f/support-rising-kendo-star-chloe-leigh or search ‘Support Rising Kendo Star Chloe Leigh’ on GoFundMe.
Pictured: Chloe, second left, and other competitors with their certificates
