MEMBERS of Chepstow Taekwondo completed a staggering 50,000 kicks at a family fundraising event on Saturday (30th September).

The martial arts group, whose youngest member is only four years old, used various kicking techniques used in Taekwondo. But it wasn’t just the members who participated, with family and friends joining in with youngest kicker being only one.

It took the team well over seven hours to reach their target. So far well over £600 has been donated with more still to be collected. All money raised by the event will be donated to Bristol Children’s Hospital.

In addition to their kicking challenge, Taekwondo instructor Tom Baxter and parent Damion Selway had their legs waxed. There was also a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses including Whirlikidz softplay, Toast Tutshill, Chepstow Community Music Centre, Younique Presenter Kelly Painter and Coffee#1 Chepstow.

The kick-athon took place at Chepstow Rugby club who kindly lent the use of their facility free of charge. The event was also aimed at encouraging people of all ages in and around Chepstow to give Taekwondo a try. Classes are held twice a week, on a Monday evening from 6pm at Chepstow Rugby Club and at 6.30pm at Itton Village Hall. Little Pumas which caters for four to seven year olds meets at 5.15pm on a Monday also at Chepstow Rugby Club. All new members no matter what their age will be given a warm welcome.

Chepstow Taekwondo instructor, Tom Baxter, said: “We set ourselves quite a challenge to reach 50,000 kicks in less than a day. But it is for a great cause and I had no doubt that we would reach our target. I was more daunted about having my legs waxed and my concerns were well founded as it hurt, a lot. This was an event for all the family and I am delighted that so many family and friends joined in. Our club is open to people of all ages from four years old to 94.

“Taekwondo is not just fun and great exercise but it also instils courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self control and spirit. I would encourage anyone to come along on a Monday or a Thursday to give it a go.”

Visit chepstowtkd.org.uk.