Undoubtedly the major event of the martial arts world, in 2013, was the World Combat Games in St Petersburg in October. Fifteen International Martial Arts & Combat Sports Federations took part in the Games, bringing over 2000 athletes together for 10 days.
Cambridge Academy of Martial Arts was well-represented, with two current members and a previous member fighting in Savate and Canne de Combat. Jon West, our main Canne de Combat instructor, took part in the Canne event. He showed some excellent technique and impressive agility. Morgan Alexander took part in the Women's -70kg Assaut. Both enjoyed an amazing experience, with all expenses paid by the organiser, including flights and hotel.
Academy Senior Instructors, Ollie Batts and Julie Gabriel, were also present. Julie has a role in the Federation Internationale de Savate, and had been working on the orgnisation of the Games for several months. Ollie was present as an official photographer, and took many stunning photos, including the one of Jon (below).
Morgan (right) with Sian Clark, who began training in Savate with the Academy, but now lives in London. Sian took part in the Women's -56kg event.
As president of the International Savate Federation, Julie was kept very busy - presenting medals and networking with Sports Officials from many different countries.
