By James Bovington
West Leeds kickboxer Jamie Fountain was surprised and delighted to have won a British title belt at his first ever competition.
He emerged from the Coventry show with the award at 66kg from ISKA, the best-known European awarding body in the sport.
“I only had three weeks to prepare. It was an exciting but tiring day, and I had two bouts,” said Jamie, 16. “The fights weren’t too long with the final lasting three one-minute rounds. I went to get a job done and I’m proud that I managed it.”
Jamie, who turns 17 in December and is a sixth form student at Horsforth School, has been training as a kickboxer at Full Force gym in Armley for just over two years.
“I live in Calverley and started when the gym was in Rodley. It then moved to Armley. I train up to five times a week during school time and maybe seven during holidays. I’m the youngest fighter at our gym.
” Like all combat sports it takes commitment, dedication even, but I enjoy it and have recently got some friends to come along although I’ve made so many new friends there. It’s a mutually supportive environment.
“This was a full contact bout. I wore headgear and shin protection but no body protection as such. I’m enjoying the sport. We’ll see where it takes me. I’m hoping to enter quite a few more tournaments in 2026.”
Aarian Dilshae, 19, coaches Jamie and was in his corner on the show. “Jamie did well because he was focused and followed instructions. He was able to keep calm and composed and looked every bit the fighter he is. We have high expectations of him.”
Anyone interested in sponsoring Jamie as he develops his kickboxing career, or for further information about Full Force, e-mail fullforceleeds@gmail.com or Instagram @fullforceleeds.
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