2018 Kent International – Medway Park, Kent

This high level event attracted players of all levels from all over the UK and was attended by Judo Clubs from abroad. The standard of Judo was therefore going to be high and everyone who attended, was not disappointed. Two of the Club’s boys competed in the Yellow belt section and 2 were in the Orange/Green belt section.

In the Yellow belt section, George Franks (11) was up first in his weight group which was one of several popular weight categories. George won his first rounds but dropped to the repecharge where he unfortunately lost the next fight and knocked him out of medal contention but overall, finished a very respectable 5th place. Sam Cobbin-Brown (11), was also called up at a similar time and competed not only in his own weight group but also the weight above due to numbers. Despite battling hard, he also had the added disadvantage of going up a weight category and also competed against older players where he held his own and came away with a well-earned Bronze medal.

In the Orange/Green belt section, the Club was represented by Owen Lambert (12) and Lewis Carter (14). Both boys had tough groups and encountered players from a large Dutch contingency in their respective sections. Owen dominated his group with mature judo and superb techniques beyond his years. After 5 straight wins, he claimed the Gold medal. Lewis had a great start in his campaign and again, showed the maturity of his judo techniques making it through to the cross-over. Unfortunately he lost the next 2 rounds and was knocked him out of medal contention but also finished a creditable 5th place.

Coach Mick Ellis said “It was a very tough competition for all players but I am very pleased with the team’s overall performance today – they all fought really well, showed great technique and spirit and did their best, which is what I ask of them”.

If you can offer sponsorship, please contact Gill Ellis on [email protected] or 07976 955905. Harlow Judo Club also caters for those with special needs – please contact the Club for more details. They are based in Foldcroft, Harlow, CM20 1SE. For training times, please visit www.harlowjudoclub.com.