European glory for martial artist Ben as he makes history for Boston
Ben Smith, a 17-year-old martial artist from Boston has made history at the Kuk Sool Won European Championships at the UEA Sports Village in Norwich.
Demonstrating exceptional skill, discipline and composure, Ben earned multiple medals during the tournament and, most notably, became Boston’s first ever Grand Champion — a significant milestone both personally and for the local martial arts community.
At this year’s championships, Ben achieved first places in Empty Hand Form and Sword Form, third places in Techniques and Sparring as well as fourth in Staff.
His outstanding performance also contributed to his school finishing in the top five schools worldwide at the championships, an impressive achievement given the international standard of competition.
He said: “I joined Kuk Sool 10 years ago at the age of seven and promoted to black belt at the age of 11.
“I’ve competed in the European championships annually in Norwich and sometimes the UK Championships in Liverpool, and have collected a number of medals in all categories.
“But the highlight was winning Grand Champion for my age and rank.
“I’ve helped to teach classes from the age of 10 and continue to lead the junior black belt class weekly.
“I’ve found that teaching has greatly improved my confidence over the years.
“I hope to promote to second degree black belt this summer and will be competing in the next European championships with the hopes of winning grand champion for a second consecutive year.”
Ben has trained for over 10 years at the town's Kuk Sool Won Boston club and competed at the event against black belts from across Europe and around the world.
He is trained by Sonny Boyall who is 'Joo Im Kwan Jang Nim' (6th degree black belt).
Kuk Sool Won Boston eacher and 5th degree black belt Arj Boyall said: “Kuk Sool Won is a traditional Korean martial art that combines striking, grappling, forms and weapons training, requiring high levels of focus, athleticism and technical precision.
“Ben’s success reflects over a decade of dedication, perseverance and hard work.
“We are incredibly proud of his achievement and the positive recognition it brings to Boston.”