MANCHESTER, UK (Oct. 20, 2018) –During the Manchester Grand Prix, rising taekwondo star and inspiration, Maisie Catt, impressively showed off her skills in front of World Taekwondo President Chungwon Choue and a packed out crowd.
At just ten months old, Maisie was tragically diagnosed with meningitis, forcing her to have both legs amputated and replaced with prosthetic limbs. However, Maisie’s impairment didn’t hold her back from taking up taekwondo.
“I started doing taekwondo because of my brother. He seemed to really enjoy it and it looked like fun,” said the young brit.
From then on Maisie hasn’t looked back. Just nine months into her taekwondo journey, Maisie has already been selected for the Great Britain Taekwondo Para-Poomsae Squad and has recently received her green belt.
After learning about Maisie’s incredible story, President Choue invited her and her family to Manchester to watch and meet some of her idols in the taekwondo world, including Bianca Walkden and Jade Jones. Maisie enjoyed a day that she deserves and will never forget.
“I loved meeting my favourite athletes. Meeting Jade was really cool. I can’t believe I’ve met the President too!” said Maisie.
Following Maisie’s demonstration, President Choue was full of praise for her attitude and taekwondo skills:
“When I heard about your inspirational story, I was truly touched by your determination and passion for taekwondo. It has been great to meet you and see some of your excellent skills! You are an inspiration for people around the world and a true credit to our sport.”
Maisie’s story will undoubtedly inspire others around the world to take up taekwondo, which is something she is incredibly honoured by.
“I’m proud that my story makes others want to take up taekwondo. It makes me feel happy! Now, I just want to keep practicing and getting better and better!”
Maisie’s story has highlighted taekwondo’s ability to inspire, to bring hope, and to change lives. She is a role model for the sport, and if her showing at the Manchester Grand Prix is anything to go by, then Maisie certainly has the attitude, determination and talent to realise her dreams and become a future para-taekwondo star!
