THE INAUGURAL Adaptive Championship held at Kazoku-Kan Judo Club went down a treat, as fighters from far afield as County Durham headed for Droitwich.
Hosted in conjunction with the annual Green and Under Championship, the club’s fighters excelled at their home tournament, with medals across the board for several members.
Liam Jones took a silver medal after demonstrating excellent technique against two Dan grade fighters, whilst Liam Grindrod also took a silver on his return to the sport.
He displayed great timing with his moves, included some well-executed hold downs, despite having not competed for two years.
Sophie Kenny’s groundwork came to the fore on the way to an Ippon win, and elsewhere, Dylan Moore battled to a bronze medal – despite being smaller in stature compared to the other fighters.
Elsewhere, Matthew Kenny also took a bronze, with Joshua Warburton taking a double bronze for his efforts in both championships.
Also taking bronze medals were Felicity Warburton and James Worsfold, who fought with determination in their respective categories.
Taking gold medals at the event were Mark Kelley (Bear Park Judo Club) and Connor Etherton (Miramar Judo Club) in the Adaptive Championship, while Stanley Walker (Rush Judo) – later named the player of the day – won both competitions.
Kai Barnett (Miramar Judo Club) walked away with silver in both tournaments, while Ryan Fitches (Southfields Judo Club) took bronze in the Adaptive Championship.
Head instructor at Kazoku-Kan Judo Club, Rich Morrish, commended the fighters for their participation in the event.
“I want to extend a massive thank you to everyone that attended our competition, it was a fun day with some excellent Judo on display,” he said.
“It was an honour to host our first Adaptive contest as well and see what potential had come along to take part.
“I am extremely proud of everyone that entered the competitions, and I am looking forward to re-running the fun next year.”
