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Double amputee girl dreams of becoming Paralympic taekwondo star

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By Jung Min-ho

Maisie Catt, right, and World Taekwondo President Choue Chung-won during the Manchester Grand Prix in Britain, Saturday (local time). Courtesy of World Taekwondo
Maisie Catt, right, and World Taekwondo President Choue Chung-won during the Manchester Grand Prix in Britain, Saturday (local time). Courtesy of World Taekwondo
A girl, who lost her legs to meningitis as a baby, is dreaming of representing the United Kingdom at para-taekwondo someday.

According to World Taekwondo (WT) Sunday, Maisie Catt, 8, was invited to the Manchester Grand Prix on Saturday and showed off her skills in front of a packed crowd.

Maisie was diagnosed with meningitis at 10 months old, which resulted in having both of her legs amputated and replaced with prosthetic blades. But the condition did not hold her back from taking up a new challenge.

She began practicing taekwondo in January after watching her little brother Finlay, 5, having lessons. Just nine months into her taekwondo journey, Maisie has already been selected for the Great Britain Taekwondo Para-Poomsae Squad and recently received her green belt.

After learning about her story, WT President Choue Chung-won invited her and her family to Manchester to watch and meet some of her favorite taekwondo athletes, such as Jade Jones and Bianca Walkden.
"I loved meeting my favorite athletes. Meeting Jade was really cool. I can't believe I've met the president too," Maisie said.

"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."

After her demonstration, President Choue praised her skills and determination.

"When I heard about your inspirational story, I was truly touched by your determination and passion for taekwondo," he told her.

"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."


Jung Min-ho mj6c2@koreatimes.co.kr


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