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Martial Arts Star Jackie Chan Backs Stevenson for Olympic Glory
British taekwondo star Sarah Stevenson, who at 17 is the World junior and European champion, is being tipped to bring home an Olympic medal by none other than martial arts film star Jackie Chan, according to report of China Daily.
Chan is sponsoring Stevenson, born in Doncaster in the former coalmining heartland of Yorkshire in northern England, when she takes part in the senior tournament which will be fully recognized at the Games for the first time.
Martial arts expert and film-maker Chan, who is backing Stevenson while promoting his new film 'Shanghai Noon' which opened in London, paid tribute to the high-kicking teenager.
"She is fantastic and I think she will be on the podium," said Chan assuredly.
Chan, who made a name for himself by doing many of his own stunts in his action films, donated proceeds of nearly 3,000 pounds (US$4,500) from the London premiere of his latest movie to the British taekwondo team's coffers.
Stevenson took up the sport when she was 10 years old because she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her older brother, Simon.
But while his interest waned, she was spotted as a star of the future and has gone on to fulfil that potential.
Stevenson will go to the Olympics with Londoner Colin Daley as the other British taekwondo team member, but the Doncaster girl is her country's best hope.
Team manager Tony Slaney said: "She is an extremely powerful athlete and we think she will do well in Sydney.
"I am really excited about it for her and Colin because it is such a great event. I have been three times before and know what it will feel like to be at the opening ceremony."
(China Daily)
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