A DEDICATED student has been hailed as a role model to his peers after being crowned Ju-jitsu World Champion.

Nelson and Colne College A-Level student Tommy Allen, who chops and changes between his studies and strict training schedule, beat competitors from across the globe to scoop the Under 18 Heavyweight title at the United Nations Ju-jitsu Congress, in Blackpool.

The 16-year-old, former Mount Carmel RC High School pupil, first started practicing Ju-jitsu at Hyndburn Sports Centre when he was seven years-old, but said he has only started winning regularly in the last two years after deciding to get ‘super’ fit.

He described being crowned World Champion as ‘awesome’ and said he already felt confident about retaining the title next year.

Ju-jitsu, literally translated as ‘art of softness’, is a demanding sport which requires competitors are focussed, strong and mentally agile.

Competitors learn to outsmart their opposition with techniques such as throwing, immobilising and pinning.

Tommy, of Brierfield, trains with Masters of Martial Arts Go-shin Kempo Ju-jitsu, in Accrington.

He said: “I had to be really dedicated to my fitness training in the lead up to the Championships at Blackpool as I knew I would be up against some tough competition, so when I won in the finals, I was over the moon.

“It took about five minutes before I realised I had won, but when it sunk in it was awesome.”

Tommy is a keen all-round sportsman who represents Blackburn RUFC as well as the college rugby team.

He also regularly runs to college from his home in Brierfield as part of his fitness regime.

Tommy is now gearing up to defend his title in Denmark next August and has ambitions to join the Navy.

As well as excelling in sports, Tommy is studying for A-Levels in Maths, Physics, Music Technology and PE.

Section leader for sport at the college Catherine Stanworth said: “He is a reliable and hard working student, who trains daily and is deserving of his success. He is always a pleasure to teach and a role model to his peers.”