Taunton School siblings qualify for JKS England Karate squad

Black belt karate kids, George and Lucie Tarr, have been selected for the JKS (Japan Karate Shotorenmei) National Kata Team after taking part in competitive trials in Harrogate.

This is the second year that 15-year-old George has qualified at the Japan Karate Shotokan Trials. Now his 12-year-old sister is set to join him in national competitions in 2023.

It was watching the film ‘Karate Kid’ that inspired the pair to take up the sport five years ago. Encouraged by their parents Jamie and Emily Tarr, they joined Somerset Ryu Karate Club where they have trained ever since. Both Taunton Prep and Senior School have supported George and Lucie as they strive to reach the top of their sport.

“Juggling academic and school life with a sport at this level is always challenging, “ said James Johnson, Taunton School Headmaster. “We are so proud of Lucie and George for this major achievement. We wish them every success with their upcoming competitions.”

George, who represented and medalled for the JKS England Squad throughout the 2022 season also won double gold at the JKS National Championships last year and came fifth in the Commonwealth Club Championships. Lucie achieved a number of medals in 2022 and was selected to attend the JKS England Trials with her brother this year.

They will now take part in a number of competitions across the country including the English Karate Championships, the Central Open Championships and the British Karate Championships. Success at these competitions could mean selection for the JKS World Championships in Japan for 2024.

“The best bit is the experience, the ability to travel, hopefully to different countries, competing at a really high level with my sister,” said George.

Lucie added: “I started Karate at seven-years-old, so I’m really proud that we are both Black Belts at such a young age. I’m looking forward to the experience of travelling and competing across the world.”