A WEARDALE teenager has won gold in her first International taekwondo competition.

Sara Graham, 15, of Frosterley, travelled to Portugal for the Peniche Open and fought her way to a gold medal, beating a Spaniard 12-3 in the final.

She also brought home a bronze medal when competing against adults in the self defence category.

Weardale taekwondo instructor, Katey Wallace, 5th Dan, said: “She did fantastically well. She is a very talented girl but doesn’t have that much experience in the ring.

“Not only did she win her fights, she won convincingly against more experienced opponents.

“All the team have worked their socks off for this competition and it’s all been worth it.”

Sara’s brother, Daniel Graham, 12, won a bronze medal in the traditional patterns competition.

The pair had been preparing for four months in the run up Peniche Open last month of which more than 500 competitors from over 15 countries attended.

Altogether the Chung Do Kwan TKD group won two gold, six silver and four bronze medals.

Free taster sessions are open to adults and juniors on Wednesday and Thursday nights at Frosterley Village Hall from 6.30 to 8pm.

For more information call Ms Wallace on 07901-650796 or visit the website, chungdokwantkd.co.uk.