AN Altrincham gym is training six young martial artists to go to the Muaythai World Championships in Thailand this August, but they need help to fund the trip.

Although the national governing body, the United Kingdom Muaythai Federation, contributes a small pot of money to the team, the team still has to find around 80 per cent of the funds themselves.

Of the 15 youngsters chosen nationwide, five of them are being trained by Tricia McKeary, the coach for Great Britain’s junior team, at Pele’s Gym in Altrincham, along with one senior competitor.

Describing the significance of the accomplishment, she said: “It’s a massive event; the juniors have had to fight all year to get their place, so just to get to where they’ve got to today is an achievement in itself.”

Muaythai, also known as Thai Boxing, has not yet been given official recognition from the government, and it is the recognition from Sport England which will open the door to further funding.

In the meantime, the fighters rely upon the support of their community and fellow gym members, something which creates a special atmosphere in the camp.

Tricia said: “It’s nice to have the whole gym’s support; everybody behind you, even the parents in the gym that haven’t got any kids fighting in it, they’re there bringing in raffle prizes for our fund-raising night.”

Two-time World Gold Medallist Niamh Kinehan, 16, has been selected from the gym to represent Great Britain in Thailand, along with Kiesha Nathan, 17, Alex Kenton, 14, and Fraser Wallace, 11.

In addition, senior competitor Jade Taylor, 21, has also been chosen from the ‘Beastmasters’ gym in Altrincham, as well as junior fighter Brandon Lindop, 11, from Team Chongi.

Jade said: “It’s hard, because some people out there don’t understand how much of an opportunity it is for us. It’s like the Olympics for us.”

To find out how to donate and help the team, visit either the Pele’s Gym Facebook group or contact them on Twitter using @pelesgym