JFAUK’s first major event of the year following a 17-month Covid 19 absence from judo proved once again to be a real hit with all judoka.

This staple event in the JFAUK calendar has proven to be very popular with every judoka spanning from many organisations who continue to attend and was this year held at Optimus Gym. Due to Covid restrictions places were limited and the course was condensed to just one day (rather than the usual 2 days), however, due to the success and the popularity of this event over the past few years all places were quickly snapped up and the event was sold out in no time.

Despite being just one day, the event was an intense affair showcasing an abundance of techniques and training skills catering for the wide span of experience levels that attended. Leading the session was our own President Sampson Sampson (8th Dan) who never fails to deliver an incredible traditional judo curriculum. On hand to assist were Samuel Betu (6th Dan and International Referee), Robert Bushnell (6th Dan and Chairman of JFAUK); as well as senior International medallists, Ross Elliott (3rd Dan) and Sam Sampson (2nd Dan).

Following the training congratulations were in hand for Robert Elliott who was promoted to 6th Dan due to his lifelong service to Judo as well as his international services for JFAUK and the WJF. Further promotions went to Paul Squires from Bratton Judo Club who was promoted to 2nd Dan as a result of his hard work behind the scenes working with disadvantaged adults, using judo as a tool to help improve the lives of his students.

As always, the event was truly well received and everyone who attended commented positively toward their judo experience and regarded this event as one of the best traditional judo environments in the country.

Thank you to all who attended,

JFAUK