David returns from Disneyworld with something a little different!

A trip to Disneyworld conjures up images of all kinds of holiday gifts, but University of Teesside student, David Lancaster, returned with something a little different – the Runner-Up trophy from the World Karate Championships!

Black belt David, 45, is a student on the University’s Elite Athlete Bursary Scheme. He took part in the 2007 International Sport Karate Association US Open held in The Coronado Springs Resort Hotel in Disneyworld, Orlando, Florida.

David, pictured, who also works as a Sport and Public Service lecturer at Hartlepool College of Further Education, said: “I’ve been involved in karate for 22 years and started as a way of keeping fit. It’s a very rewarding sport as you always have something to aim for, whether it’s working towards your next belt or taking part in a tournament. I entered my first competition when I was a brown belt and found that losing made me more determined and increased my motivation.

“I really enjoyed the Championships in Florida, though I was a bit disappointed to lose in the final. Overall, I’m quite happy though as I suffered a serious knee injury last year and it has taken time to recover. I’m very grateful to Gwen Dalgleish, my sports therapist, and all the staff in the Sport & Recreation department at the University for the help and support they give me and all the other students on the Elite Athlete Bursary Scheme.”

David’s next challenge is the Irish Open in March 2008, the most prestigious Karate tournament in Europe, where he finished third in 2004.

The University of Teesside’s Elite Athlete Bursary Scheme provides a comprehensive athlete support structure to help the most talented athletes reach their potential in both their sporting career and their academic studies. For more information, contact the Sport and Recreation Unit on 01642 342267 or email sport@tees.ac.uk. More information on student life

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