MARTIAL arts maestro Dylan Ruck Havard is fast making a name for himself in the world of kickboxing, and this October the 11-year-old will be making the trip to Germany to compete in the ICO/ISF World Championships.

The Deri View school pupil who has fought all around the UK since the age of six has never competed abroad before, and is relishing the challenge that Germany will bring.

Dylan who began his kickboxing career with Abergavenny’s Verve Martial Arts five years ago, now trains four times a week in two hour sessions under the watching eye of world champion kickboxer Rob Taylor.

Dylan, who has already been crowned British champion twice and Welsh open champ twice in his category, will be looking to add to his impressive medal haul, which includes silver in the Europeans, when he competes in the U12 category at the ICO/ISF World Championships.

Proud mum Tara Ruck Havard will make the trip alongside Dylan and explained how proud she and her husband Shane are of what their son has already achieved, and what a fantastic discipline kickboxing has been for Dylan.

“Kickboxing has had a very calming influence on Dylan. He was a bit hyperactive before he started but it’s proven to be a great channel for his energies. It’s also been very good for his confidence. And judging by the amount of medals he’s won, something he’s very good at.

“Through the sport Dylan had the opportunity to train with Olympian Aaron Cook and World Kickboxing Champion Drew Neal. He’s taken part in displays at Abergavenny Carnival and at the Xmas factor in Abergavenny Theatre.

“For gradings he has also has had to learn technical terms associated with kickboxing in Korean and sometimes helps his instructor with the class for three to five-year-old olds.

“As well as competing Dylan has also taken part in gradings, seminars, displays and fundraising for charity through kickboxing.”

Of course, by its very nature, kickboxing is a sport where injuries are a concern, especially for youngsters like Dylan, but his mum insists that kickboxing is also a sport where the safety of the competitors is paramount and a sport which gives so much more to its participants than most people would expect.

“With every sport there is a risk of injury. However, Dylan trains hard, has a great instructor and team. They wear protective equipment (which is compulsory) and there are medics at every tournament.

“Kickboxing isn’t just about self defence but achievement, team work, belief, confidence, fitness and flexibility.

“Participating in the sport has helped him feel more confident when sitting school tests, public speaking, taking part in plays and Eisteddfods. It also gives him a good work ethic.

“More importantly, even though Dylan competes on the mats, off them, he has made friends from different clubs and areas.

“All in all, kickboxing has been nothing but a positive thing for Dylan.”

Pictured is Dylan with his sponsors Abergavenny Taxis and G-Tec.