Two brothers from High Wycombe have secured medals at the British National Taekwondo Poomsae Championships.

Ahmad-Mustafa Rafeeq, 11, and Ali-Hayder Rafeeq, nine, visited Arena Sports in Kettering, to take part in the competition which occurred across November 2 and November 3.

Ali-Hayder, who is profoundly deaf, won gold in the individual junior male paralympic category, which he has now  added to his previous national champion titles of 2021 and 2022

For Ahmad-Mustafa, who won bronze in the pair cadet category, won gold, silver and bronze medals two years ago.

The eldest brother is a pupil at the Cressex Community School and was formerly at the Abbey View Primary Academy. 

His younger brother is a student Mary Hare School in Newbury and was formerly a pupil at the Heathlands School for Deaf Children in St. Albans.

Chris Ratcliffe, CEO, of UK Deaf Sport, commented “Ali's achievement in winning the individual junior male paralympic category at the British Taekwondo National Championships is a testament to his unwavering dedication and talent.

“Securing the 2024 British National Champion title, alongside his previous golds in 2021 and 2022, showcases his consistent excellence in this category.

“At UK Deaf Sport, we are incredibly proud to read of Ali’s accomplishments, which serve as an inspiration not only to the deaf sports community but to all deaf athletes aspiring to break barriers in sport.

“His journey reminds us that with determination, the impossible becomes possible."

Toni Brodelle, Director of Incredible Me Education, teacher and tutor specialising in SEND, and Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for Wycombe added: “Ali and Ahmad are exceptional role models who could teach us all a great deal about the importance of self-belief, perseverance and working hard to achieve your dreams.

“As a teacher and SEND specialist, it inspires me to see young people - particularly those with SEND - smashing through barriers to achieve their dreams, and blazing a trail for others to follow.”

Khaiam Shabbir, Headteacher at the Cressex Community School and also a Taekwondo practitioner stated, “Young Ahmad has shown that small steps, with commitment and focus can lead to a journey of personal success.

“His character and discipline embody the Taekwondo tenets of courtesy, indomitable spirit, integrity, perseverance, and self-control. 

“We wish him continued success on his journey of mastering this art form.”