Taekwondo champ picked as Team GB mascot for Paris Olympics

Josh Davidson, from East Kilbride, was one of six youngsters (and the only Scottish kid) picked for the role, having beaten more than 20,000 five to 11-year-olds across the UK who applied. 

Josh, and his other mini mascots, will support Team GB athletes as they prepare to compete in Paris, from kitting out - where athletes collect their kit In Birmingham - to local team announcements and participating in fan zones to watch the action.

“I’m very excited as only six people will get to be a mini mascot for the Paris Olympics,” Josh said. 

He added: “It feels even more special because I’m the only mascot from Scotland.”

Josh’s dad, Mark Davidson, added: “He’s buzzing, and he actually found out a couple of months ago, so he has done really well not mentioning it. 

“We’re so chuffed for him.”

The six youngsters – who each represent the nations which make up Team GB – first met one another last year as they participated in a photo shoot and meet-and-greet with Olympic silver medallist, Mallory Franklin.

So, how did this South Lanarkshire superstar get picked for such a cool role? 

Well, it all began with a ballot and a random selection process.

Mark explained: “Angela (Josh's mum and Mark's wife) applied to a ballot around Autumn last year, which was open to all kids in the UK aged between like five and 11 or 12. 

“From that, 40 kids were selected at random – one of which was Josh. 

“We then had to submit a video on why he should be picked as a mini mascot and his reasons for wanting to be involved in the process as well as his history with sport.” 

And Josh's history with sport is certainly an incredible one.

Having started Taekwondo classes at the age of three, the youngster quickly grew into somewhat of a superstar in the popular martial art form.

With his blue belt now in the bag, the school pupil has travelled all over the world winning trophies and medals as well as making a name for himself. 

Mark said: “We’re really proud of what he has achieved at such a young age. 

“He trains three to four times a week and competes nationally between four and six times a year and internationally once a year. 

“He just performed at the Dutch Open in Holland and won a silver medal in the under-12s category. 

“He has such an incredible passion for the sport, and he wants to be the best in the country. 
“We’re so proud to support him.”

Josh added: “I love competing and meeting new people and keeping fit. 
“I also enjoy learning new skills when I am training.”  

The 2024 Paris Olympic Summer Games will take place between July 26 and August 11. 

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