From left: Norbi, Rob, Chris M, Andrew, Liang, Chris C, Vlad

CUJC put in a strong showing at the Littleport Open.

CUJC newcomers Vlad and Andrew, at 19 years of age, were eligible for the junior U73 category. Andrew, after practising judo for just over a year, put in an impressive performance against more experienced opponents, and was unlucky not to medal. Vlad, with a few more year’s practice under his belt, achieved a silver. Hungry for more, both fighters then agreed to enter the senior U73 novice-2ndKyu category.

Rob entered the U66 novice-2ndKyu category. He lost his first fight, but went on to win his remaining two, and left with a silver medal.

CUJC had four entrants in the U73 novice-2ndKyu category – Andrew, Vlad, Chris M and Liang. Chris dominated and won his first fight, but was unlucky not to progress further. Vlad and Andrew showed their stamina by both achieving bronze medals, despite already having fought that morning. Liang, after just over a year of judo, made it to the final of the category. Struggling with a painful toe injury, he was ultimately beaten in the final and left with a silver medal.

Chris C entered the U90 1stKyu&Dan category, and dispatched his only opponent, to leave with a gold medal and a further 10 points towards his first dan.

Norbi didn’t make weight for the U90, and instead entered the U100 1stKyu&Dan category. Despite their weight, he defeated all his opponents in typically effective fashion, and left with a gold medal.

Following the competition, Chris C entered the dan grading. His ten points from the competition proved to be unnecessary, as he won his line up and is now a First Dan in judo.

Congratulations to everyone who entered. The hard training that we’ve put in this term showed itself.

Special congratulations to Vlad and Andrew, for entering two competitions. And of course to Chris, for achieving his black belt.

Check out some photos from the day in the gallery.

Rob Blackburn – President