A nine-year-old martial arts prodigy has achieved remarkable success on the international scene.

Riley Davies, from Pontypool, returned to Wales with two world titles after claiming gold medals in both forms and combat divisions at the Taekwondo World Cup held in Canada.

The youngster demonstrated exceptional skill in both disciplines, securing victory just two years after beginning his taekwondo journey.

His father, Jason Davies, explained that Riley began training in the discipline two years prior. He had been experiencing bullying at school, and taking up taekwondo transformed his personality. The boy developed significantly greater self-assurance and improved his behaviour considerably. It is remarkable what the sport has done for him. He was previously involved in rugby but gave up the game to dedicate himself fully to taekwondo. Currently, he participates in training sessions up to six days weekly, with his single rest day spent doing hill work at Core Gym in Newport.

Mr Davies noted that Riley was the sole young competitor representing Wales at the World Cup event, which occurred on Saturday July 4. The competition and all associated training costs were funded entirely by the family.

Riley secured two gold medals across his divisions. In the patterns event, he performed a prescribed sequence of 21 movements requiring both power and accuracy. The sparring division involved donning protective equipment and facing another competitor directly.

His home club, Cwmbran and Pontypool Taekwondo Club, proved instrumental in his progression. Without the dedicated training, guidance, and support of this outstanding club, none of this would have materialised. The instructors work wonderfully with children, helping them develop and gain confidence. The philosophy centres on respect and proper conduct, making it an exceptional environment. The club deserves the highest commendation.

Riley’s accomplishment reflects not only his competitive achievements but also his remarkable commitment. He undertook intensive preparation before the event, training six days weekly alongside supplementary sessions at the club. Without their backing, this outcome would not have been possible. Achieving so much in such a brief period has made his parents the proudest mother and father imaginable.