International Open Nijmeegs Kampioenschap Judo Nijmegen, Netherlands

OWEN Lambert (13) of Harlow Judo Club, competed in his first International Pre-Cadets competition having been selected to be part of the Regional Development Squad (REDS). He travelled with the Squad overnight to the Ninmegen, Netherlands, to take part in the International Open Nijmeegs Kampioenschap Judo, which was then followed by a training session before returning back to the UK. On the day of the event, the Dutch players were out in force but so were the French, Swiss and Austrians.

The event took place over eight mats and proved to be a very successful event for the small group of coaches and youngsters, aged between 12 and 15. The squad came away with a bumper haul of medals and Owen for his own part, came away with a well earned Bronze medal. After starting well and winning his first 2 fights, he lost his next one and was out of contention for the Gold medal, however he fought back and won the remaining 4 rounds all the while, displaying strong judo throughout his contests, some of them, lasting seconds.

The standard of Judo was extremely high at this competition and the REDS squad did not disappoint. Whilst some of the team didn’t medal, they did come away with valuable experience and for many of them, it was their first international competition.

Harlow Judo Club are always on the lookout for sponsorship to help fund players in events all around the country at various levels. If you can assist, 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