British Age Band Championships - 2008
On Friday 10th October, a group of young Judo Fighters from the Edinburgh Judo Club and Just-Judo departed Scotland in search of glory at the National Age Banded Championships in Sheffield.
This competition, being the most prestigious of British competitions for young judo players, is what the majority of competitive young judoka work towards. For some, going down to fight in Sheffield is merely a way of gaining invaluable experience of fighting at a higher level. For others, it's a chance to prove themselves worthy of being called one of the top British Judo Fighters for their age. However, for all, it's a chance to fight as hard as they possibley can, and put their training to the test.
Fortunately we arrived in Sheffield safe and sound; unfortunately, finding the hotel appeared to be more difficult for some than the Judo! After we got settled into our rooms, we relaxed, listened to some music and (for those who weren't too close to their weights) ate some food.
Fast-forward 12 hours.....At the Saturday morning weigh-in all those fighting on Saturday successfully made their weight. And so the judo began! Shaun Conlon put in a great performance to win the bronze; he ultimately won his medal throwing his opponent for ippon on the buzzer, this resulted in great applause from his teammates and coach, Lee!
Ksenia Voronova fought well to get 5th place in a highly competitive weight category, the -63kg for girls aged 14-15. Vicky Barrance fought her heart out and successfully won her bronze medal fight to the delight of the Just-Judo/Edinburgh crowd! Reece Calder gave a very mature performance winning 3 fights. This is a huge improvement on his previous efforts at this tournament, and he received the "Fighter of the Weekend" award for his excellent efforts.
On Day 2 of the Championships some of the older fighters had their chance to shine; Jonny Dewar put on an outstanding show of judo. Although he fell just short of the medals (with a 5th place) his determination and fitness were fantastic. He also beat some very strong players during the day. Daniel Dunn made it through to the semi-final in the -73kg (16-18) category, a very competitive weight group. Unfortunately he lost his next two contests, resulting in a 5th place, but there's no doubt that he'll be back for more next year.
Danae Harris finished with the bronze medal in the -52kg (16-18) category, whilst Jodie Mullen received a bronze medal in the -63kg (16-18) category. Jodie fought really well, this is her first National medal (of many to come hopefully) and reflects her hardworking attitutude at training. Eilish Walker, one of the last players from the club to fight, gave it her all and shone through, accomplishing a well-deserved bronze medal.
Huge thanks go out to all the coaches, (Lee, David & Tony), parents (Matthew Allison's Mum!) and people who helped (Jimmy, Maureen, Andy and Kirsty).
Finally, congratulations to all the fighters this weekend, regardless of whether or not you medalled, you all gave 100% and fought fantastic. Keep up the good work
RESULTS
BRONZE: Shaun Conlon, Eilish Walker, Vicky Barrance, Danae Harris, Jodie Mullen
5TH: Ksenia Voronova, Jonny Dewar & Daniel Dunn