ADDINGTON Judo Club on Sunday sent a team of three to the British Judo Council nationals at Kettering.
Jamie Hewlett, although classed as a veteran, was entered in the open age (-73k) category, fighting over 16s half his age. He won both his bouts with ippon to take gold.
Emma Brown, having not fought for 12 years, met two national squad members (-57kg) and although putting up a brave fight, was beaten by their superior experience. However, she still came home with a bronze medal.
Club instructor Gareth Merredew narrowly missed the -90kg category and so had to enter at -100kg. He won both bouts in his pool before losing in the final and bagging silver.
Next on the agenda for the club are some smaller competitions in the new year, which lead up to the national open in May.
This is a huge turn around for a club that five years ago had only five members. More than 50 aged five to 52 are now on the books.
Nevertheless, the club are always seeking new judoka, from five upwards. They train on Tuesday evenings at the Addington Community Association sports hall; ages five to nine, 7.15-8.15pm, ten to 15, 8.15-9.15pm, over 16, 9.15-10.15pm.
The cost is £1 per person with the first session free.
For more information, call Steve on 01689849462 or go to Facebook under Addington Judo Club or Gareth judo Merredew.