MORE THAN 100 members from Cumbria's Chojinkai Karate Clubs entered the inter-club competitions at the weekend, with Carlisle and Brampton clubs showering themselves with glory. 

Kendal Chojinkai Club, which hosted the inter-club competition, saw the Carlisle and Brampton clubs top the medal table bringing home 19 gold, 20 silver and 42 bronze medals.

This is a routine event which brings members from all over the county, with members hailing from Cumbrian based Doug James Chojinkai Karate Clubs.

Cumberland & Westmorland Gazette: ACTION: From Senior sparring and Holly Pithers and Tilly Fielden from Carlisle and Brampton ClubsACTION: From Senior sparring and Holly Pithers and Tilly Fielden from Carlisle and Brampton Clubs  

The Carlisle and Brampton clubs, which are ran by their head instructor and Sensei, 5th Dan Mark Heaton. 

READ MORE: Karate master Douglas James receives his 9th Dan

Mark said the day was a 'great turnout' and the standard put out by all competiting was 'very high'. 

"Everyone had worked really hard - it was a great atmosphere on the day, everyone did really well," he said. 

The Chojinkai Karate Clubs will be looking towards their 45th open on June 12, which will bring with it national and European officials alongside competitors from all over the UK. 

Cumberland & Westmorland Gazette: TEAM: Little Dragons section pictured alongside Harry Clarke with his newly acquired medals. TEAM: Little Dragons section pictured alongside Harry Clarke with his newly acquired medals.

Mark will also be relaunching Penrith's karate club for the first time in eight years alongside his 2nd Dan son, Lewis Heaton as of May 5 from the Hunter Hall School every Thursday from 5:45pm. 

READ MORE: Martial arts triumph for kids at karate championship

Sensei and 9th Dan, Doug James, said: "I am delighted that Mark & Lewis are bringing Chojinkai Karate back to Penrith.

"Mark runs his own successful clubs in Carlisle, Brampton & Wigton & has been a personal student of mine for 23 years since he started aged 14. 

"His son Lewis now 18, started at 4 years old and is regarded as Chojinkai karate's 'Original Little Dragon'.He is a massive inspiration & role model to all our younger students and will be teaching at all of the classes."

Anyone interested in starting karate either in the Adult Section, the Juniors or the special Little Dragons in Carlisle, Brampton, Wigton or Penrith, please ring Mark on 07732 352359, as spaces are limited to availability. 

READ MORE: Karate club to return after 8 year hiatus