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Cook switches to Isle of Man

The Isle of Man Taekwondo Federation has pulled off a major coup, by getting one of the leading exponents of the martial art to represent the Isle of Man.

Aaron Cook is currently ranked number two in the world in the men's 80kg category and is also the European champion at that weight.

The move comes after his non-selection for the British Olympic team, despite being ranked number one at the time.

Ed Oldham reports:

The Isle of Man's status as an associate member of the World Taekwondo Federation means players from here can compete under the Manx flag in all international tournaments, bar the Olympics.

Richard Halsall of the IOMTA says by representing the Island in WTF-sanctioned events Aaron Cook can retain his ability to compete for Great Britain in the future.

Richard also feels it can have a hugely positive influence on the many taekwondo players in the Isle of Man.

We'll hear much more on this, including from Aaron himself, on Manx Radio later in the day.

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