Bianca Cook is selected to fight for the Isle of Man.

Bianca has family on the island and has decided to make the switch to fight for the small nation ahead of the upcoming European Championships to enhance her selection prospects for Team GB at the Paris Olympics. She will be competing for an unprecedented 5th European title.

Bianca Cook (nee Walkden) said “It is great to have the opportunity to represent the Isle of Man. This island has become a part of my life, and I am thankful to the Isle of Man Taekwondo Association for welcoming me.  My aim is to show my form for selection for Team GB whilst at the same time, representing the Isle of Man in World Taekwondo in competitions including at the European Championships.”

Director of Isle of Man Taekwondo Association Richard Halsall commented “We are honoured to welcome Bianca Cook to represent the Isle of Man internationally in taekwondo. Bianca is three-time world champion, double Olympic medallist and a fantastic athlete and role model. We look forward to further supporting her going forward particularly in her goal of being an unprecedented 5 times European champion in Serbia in May.”

Gary Hall Performance Director of GB Taekwondo said “GB Taekwondo supports athletes from all those territories that come together as Team GB. Our current squad includes athletes from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so we welcome Bianca seeking recognition of her connection to the Isle of Man. Bianca will remain a member of the GB Taekwondo World Class Programme and continue to receive our full support as she prepares to fight at the European Championships and seek selection for the Paris Olympic Games.”

Editors Note:

Whilst the Isle of Man is not part of the UK its citizens are British and athletes are eligible for selection for Team GB at the Paris Olympic Games.