Darlington fighter becomes UK’s youngest Muay Thai world medallist

Theo Spinks, from Darlington, won a bronze medal at the World Thai Boxing Championships in Bangkok after becoming the youngest fighter ever selected for the Team GB squad.

The 11-year-old, who overcame Perthes disease at a young age to compete in the sport he loves, said: “It feels really good to have placed. I was quite nervous when I got there, but that went away once I got in the ring.

“It was tough, but really fun. I think I did alright. Now I’m going to work hard to win the next tournament.”

Theo fought hard, ultimately losing in the semi-final to a Russian fighter who went on to win Gold in their age/weight category.

Theo (centre) with parents Emily and Paul, and little brother Charlie

Impressing Team GB coaches with his performance, Theo has been invited to represent Great Britain again at the upcoming Muay Thai European championships, in Istanbul in February.

Theo’s mum, Emily, said: “Theo has done absolutely amazingly, we’re really proud of him. He worked so hard to get this far, and to it’s wonderful for him to be recognised by the Team GB coaches and get invited to represent his country again in Turkey. Hopefully he’ll do just as well as he did this time.”

His dad, Paul, added: “We also want to say a big thank you to everyone who supported our fundraising to send Theo over so he could compete. It’s very much appreciated.”

Now the family are searching for a local business to sponsor Theo as he continues to chase his dreams.

“With it being so close to Christmas and having just done a big fundraising drive, we didn’t want to ask friends and family for more money,” said Emily.

“We’re hoping a local business would like to sponsor Theo. He’s a local lad who’s competing at a very high level, and we think it would be worthwhile for a local organisation to get behind him.”

Anyone interested in sponsoring Theo is asked to contact Paul at spinko_mt@yahoo.co.uk.