A RESIDENT from Dinas Powys has become the first female wheelchair user in Wales to achieve black belt status in Karate after overcoming mobility issues.

Lisa 'Maddy' Thomson, 41, became interested in wheelchair Karate in 2012, when her mobility issue made it difficult for her to take part in other sports.

Maddy joined the sport by signing up to a block of 10 Karate taster sessions organised by day service officer, Linda Ruston, at New Horizons Day Centre, Barry. Participants of the course were all varying ages and had different disabilities.

The centre supports adults with physical disabilities and is run by the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Social Services Department.

Maddy said: “I was initially looking for something to keep me active, as my Rheumatoid Arthritis had meant I was relying on my wheelchair to mobilise at all times, and had been unable to take part in the other sports I was interested in.”

Going from strength to strength, Maddy ended up competing in competitions within a few months and taken her first grading.

She progressed quickly through the different coloured belts and gradings, and finally achieved black belt status in December, 2016.

Talking about her achievement, Maddy said: “I can remember my first competition being very nerve-racking, but, at the same time, it gave me a massive boost in confidence.

“This rise in confidence allowed me to participate in a number of competitions all over Wales and the UK – from Swansea and Merthyr to the north of England and Scotland – and to even conduct a Karate demonstration for the Army at an event in Aldershot for wounded service personnel.

“Following receiving the black belt, I have gone on to coach my first lesson at the day centre with a fellow day centre member, Adam, who demonstrated the kicks for me.

“My next goal is to improve my teaching skills so that I can go on to do more instructing in the future.”

Rob Green, Maddy’s current Sensei, has been thanked for raising the profile of disability Karate, and for opening everyone’s minds to the concept of ‘sport for all’.

He said of Maddy: “She is a true inspiration – not only to disability sport, but to women in general – and has, with great determination, overcome several obstacles to exceed her expectations. I am very proud of her.”

Maddy continues to train at the Day Centre and St Pats Academy, whilst four of her fellow participants at the original taster sessions still take part in Karate at the Day Centre.

The sessions at the Day Centre are now also attended by nine clients with learning disabilities from Woodlands Day Service.