Some moments in sport just hit different. Standing on that tatami in Denmark last September knowing I had gone from the maybe list to actually being selected for the European Continental Championships. And then to come away with silver. Honestly it still feels surreal.

The journey to Denmark was anything but straightforward. When the selection process started I was not a guaranteed pick. I was on the maybe list which meant weeks of extra pressure and training harder than ever to prove I deserved that spot on the England team. The uncertainty was tough. But looking back it made the whole experience mean so much more.

Competition day nerves are something else. Walking into that arena seeing flags from all over Europe and knowing you are about to represent your country. My stomach was doing flips but in a good way. You train for years for moments like this.

The Semi Final

Getting through to the semi final felt massive. The screen showing my name DE BRUM JAKOB JKS ENGLAND made it real. This was actually happening. I performed my kata with everything I had. The focus was intense. When I finished I knew I had done a good performance.

The final was tough. Really tough. Coming away with silver meant so much but there is always that part of you that wanted gold. Still I have to remind myself what an achievement this is. European silver medal. Not bad for a 13 year old lad from Abingdon who was on the maybe list just weeks before.

Medal ceremony was a proud moment. All those early mornings all that sacrifice from my family and the cost of getting here suddenly felt worth it.

Massive thanks to Motion Mender for the ongoing support with massages keeping my body competition ready. Thanks also to Pink Coco London and Park Pax for the ongoing support. This journey would not be possible without people believing in us.

Now the focus shifts to Brazil and the JKS World Championships. If you want to support my journey please consider donating at gofund.me/jakobdebrum or sharing with anyone who might help. Every bit gets me closer to that dream. Follow my journey on TikTok and subscribe to my YouTube channel to see what goes on behind the scenes.

For a full guide, see The Moment Between Rounds When Everything Changes.

For a full guide, see Jakob’s Hard Work, Determination, and Growth.

For a full guide, see Medicine Ball Slams Build Explosive Power for Karate.