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Ipswich sporting prodigy and 'one to watch' dominates four disciplines to win national title

Charlie's British Racketlon Championship victory demonstrates remarkable versatility as the nine-year-old excelled in table tennis, badminton, squash and tennis to claim the U12 crown.

Charlie holding his tennis racket at Ipswich Sports Club
Ipswich Sports Club
Charlie at Ipswich Sports Club

Why it matters: Despite being one of the youngest competitors in his category, the Ipswich youngster outperformed opponents up to three years his senior at the national tournament.

Charlie holding his tennis racket at Ipswich Sports Club
Ipswich Sports Club
Charlie at Ipswich Sports Club

The details: The competition took place last weekend at The Parklangley Club in Bromley, where Charlie competed against some of the best young multi-sport athletes from across the country.

Racketlon requires athletes to master all four racket sports – table tennis, badminton, squash, and tennis – with cumulative points determining the overall winner.

What they're saying: "Charlie played with such maturity and confidence. It was incredible to watch," said one tournament official. "He's definitely one to watch for the future."

The bottom line: At just nine years old, Charlie's achievement is particularly notable in the U12 category, where competitors can be up to 11 years of age. The U12 title marks a significant milestone in Charlie's young sporting career and highlights his dedication to training across multiple disciplines – no small feat for an athlete of any age.

Ipswich Sports Club

Ipswich Sports Club is one of Suffolk’s leading independent, competitive racket sports and hockey clubs, with a rich history spanning over a century.

Mark Petchey giving a coaching masterclass at Ipswich Sports Club

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