TO say Harlow Jiu Jitsu did our town proud is an understatement, because on Saturday

23rd May this club stormed the International Championships at Southend and came

back with 17 medals – 6 gold, 6 silver, and 5 bronze.

The day was filled with laughter, joy, and sportsmanship, with a 3-hour course starting

at 9am where Senseis from all over the world, ranging from cities up north to different

countries like America and Belgium, demonstrated their own techniques to course

attendees and competitors. This was an insightful learning experience for all, and it

was a pleasure to learn from so many great people.

Then the competition started in the afternoon. The 30-degree heat did not stop Harlow

when it came to the main event. Competitors from the club aged 8 years old and over

were winning fights left right and centre, it was hard to keep track! The day was filled

with achievements; this was a first competition for a handful of Harlow Jiu Jitsu’s

competitors, and their resilience was admirable. They also had some students

competing in new categories due to belt upgrades and age and even had some

returning from university to compete. Undeniably, the squad of 29 had competitors

who have been in this rodeo for years, but the passion from everyone was

unforgettable. It was clear Harlow Jiu Jitu was in the room, and they wanted to do

themselves proud.

This is something that you can’t replicate at any other club, the unmistakable support

from parents, family, friends, and other competitors. Harlow Jiu Jitsu became one that

day, and the shouts of encouragement surely deafened the surrounding spectators.

Cheering not only for their own relatives but their friends and their Senseis created an

atmosphere no one could describe. Being able to say ‘I am part of Harlow Jiu Jitsu’

holds a lot of weight and honour after seeing how substantiating everyone is at a

competition.

Sensei Luke Shipwright, head coach of Harlow Jiu Jitsu, says “I am overall very happy

with how the day went and couldn’t have asked for more. This is my second year

officiating instead of competing, and I was overwhelmed with happiness hearing our

name being called out consistently during the day when refereeing and judging other

fights. Seeing new students and veterans compete together and support each other

really was inspiring, and I’m astounded by how our small association has come

together and stormed a big competition like this”.

Overall, Harlow Jiu Jitsu did a fantastic job at the championships, and it is inspiring to

see a small group of individuals become one collective team and do amazingly in this

year’s championships.

Written by Maria Thira, assistant coach and social media manager of Harlow Jiu Jitsu