Raphael Veras helped talented Bethnal Green youngster last Saturday and had plenty of other fighters enjoy success in France

East London Advertiser: Tayla O'Brien (right) celebrates her gold medal in France with coach Raphael VerasTayla O'Brien (right) celebrates her gold medal in France with coach Raphael Veras (Image: Archant)

Tayla O’Brien enjoyed her trip to France last weekend, as she returned back to Bethnal Green with another gold medal.

The 13-year-old competed in the 10eme National Open in Orleans on Saturday and received help from another local coach.

Raphael Veras, of Veras Academy Karate Club, went with O’Brien to the event and played a big part in her success.

O’Brien competed in the girls 12-13 years -40kg category and faced fighters from all across the world.

East London Advertiser: Sensei Raphael Veras (right) with Naveah Thomas-Birch (pic: Veras Academy Karate Club).Sensei Raphael Veras (right) with Naveah Thomas-Birch (pic: Veras Academy Karate Club). (Image: Archant)

After five tough fights, the Uechi-ryu Karate Club member managed to claim gold to become national Orleans in her category.

Mum Lisa O’Brien said: “Tayla had a great day and we were all very proud of her for winning gold.”

Sensei Raphael Veras took 11 other young athletes to Orleans and was pleased with how all of his squad coped.

Luan Veras won the 12-13 years -45kg category on the Saturday after some excellent performances in France.

East London Advertiser: Veras Academy Karate Club's Isaac Gibson (left) with French world champion Emily Thouy (centre) and Senpai Patricia Veras (pic: Veras Academy Karate Club).Veras Academy Karate Club's Isaac Gibson (left) with French world champion Emily Thouy (centre) and Senpai Patricia Veras (pic: Veras Academy Karate Club). (Image: Archant)

The following day nine-year-old Isaac Gibson achieved his first European gold in the -25kg competition.

Naveah Thomas-Birch, also nine, did well in the -30kg category and claimed a podium finish by earning bronze.

All in all it was another successful weekend for Raphael Veras and his group of talented local young fighters.