Alec Edwards, one of our CUJC coaches, has been awarded his 6th Dan by the British Judo Association. Alec’s participation in judo began over 50 years ago, and has involved a range of activities including competing, coaching and examining. He has refereed at Area and National level, is a Senior Examiner and Level 3 coach. He is a Kata Examiner and has supported and led kata courses throughout the country, which he continues to do in the Eastern Area region. He also won a World Masters Bronze medal in Canada in 2000.
Alec is a vital part of the coaching team at Cambridge University Judo Club, where he coaches three times a week. We are so lucky to benefit from his significant experience and skill, as well as his humour and good nature, which make him a highly effective and respected coach. His commitment and dedication to the club and its members has played a substantial role in our success over the years. Alec has contributed much to the development of the sport, and to the individual progress of many judoka over the years, and he is highly regarded by everyone who has been fortunate to train with him.
Steve Lesik, from the Promotion Commission, presented Alec with his 6th Dan at a surprise presentation party held in his honour.
Dave Horton-Jones, British Judo National Dan Gradings Manager said: “It is fantastic to see Alec achieve his 6th Dan after the immense contribution he had made to judo both in his area and Nationally.”
Sarah Spencer, CUJC Secretary 2022/23
Delighted to hear of Alec’s promotion; he has been a stalwart at CUJC. Please congratulate him from me. I sent an en email to CUJC last month inviting you and the town club to The Budokwai for either last Saturday or this Saturday but did not hear back. Best wishes.
John Goodbody (CUJC coach 1974-77 and fighter 1975). Vice-President of The Budokwai
I was captain of the winning team against Oxford in 1958 and trained at the Kodokan in Tokyo from 1964 to 1966 — watched Anton Geesink win the Open Class gold medal at the Olympics and at the World competition at Paris in 1961 (when there were still no weight categories)– parhaps Alec and I were close contemporaries?
I can’t think of anyone more deserving! Please send my warmest congratulations to Alec, I’m proud to know him and to have been taught by him.
This is great news. Please pass on my congratulations to Alec.