A champion kick boxer from Longendale will take one step forward towards his dream of competing in the 2028 Olympics, after securing a third year of support from QTS Group,
Adie Lock will join 13 other athletes from across the UK as he continues to be supported by the national rail contractors Youth Athlete Programme.
As part of the programme, the 14-year-old will receive financial backing to help support his training, as well as travel and accommodation costs when training. He’ll also receive a new kickboxing fighting kit from QTS Group.
Adie first started kickboxing when he was seven years old, after his mum took him to classes to help build his confidence. From the minute he started, it was clear he had natural talent for the sport and within weeks he was moved up from beginners to the junior class.
Adie has been competing for over seven years now, attending numerous international and national tournaments – including three gold medals in the Turkish Open and five in the Aberdeen Open.
To ensure he remains committed to his goal of competing in the 2028 Olympics when he turns 20-years-old, Adie trains four nights a week at the Energize Martial Arts Academy in Stockport under trainer Carl Thomas.
The teenager is also passionate about helping others and helps coach younger kick boxers at the gym.
Adie’s dad Rob Lock said: “The support from QTS over the last two year has been invaluable, as Adie has looked to further his Olympic dreams.
“It’s been a tough 12 months for him, with the Covid pandemic preventing him from competing, but he’s remained committed throughout, training wherever he can, and he can’t wait to start competing again.
“With the ongoing support of QTS he’ll be able to continue competing internationally and further his chances of being picked for the 2028 Olympic kickboxing team.”
QTS Group launched its Youth Athlete Programme five years ago and to date has helped 22 young athletes across a range of sporting disciplines including, snowboarding, ice skating, kickboxing and beach volleyball.
Alan McLeish, Managing Director of QTS Group said, “It is a privilege to welcome Adie back on for another year to the QTS Youth Athlete Programme to offer support in his road to glory.
“He is a great role model to other young people looking to get into the support. Hopefully now it has been welcomed into the Olympics – we will see another generation of young Adie Locks coming through!”
QTS Group is currently welcoming applications to its Youth Athlete Programme in England. To apply, email [email protected] by the 30th September 2021.
