Double celebrations for Shin Gi Tai Martial Arts Academy (affiliated to the British Council for Chinese Martial Arts) as it gains Clubmark accreditation and scoops Basingstoke Sports Club of the Year Award.

Back in April 2009 when the Club started working towards Clubmark it had no links with the County Sports Partnership or  local council, but along the accreditation journey developed a strong relationship with the Council's Active Healthy Communities Team and as well as achieving accreditation in September 2010, the Club was also awarded the Basingstoke Sports Club of the Year award for 2009.

The Club has seen membership rates rise from 100 to 300 members and it has recently secured new larger premises, from which the club is based.

Bryan Andrews, Chief Instructor of Shin Gi Tai Martial Arts Academy commented:

"Our commitment to quality, safety and fair play for all students has always been a cornerstone of the club's philosophy and applies to juniors and adults alike. Sport England's Clubmark initiative is a welcome quality kite mark to help local residents find the right club for them and to have independent assurance of its quality."

For more information about how to get Clubmark accreditation in Sport Hampshire & IOW please visit: http://www.sporthampshireiow.co.uk/sportsclubs/clubmarkinformation.htm