South Brent Judo Club

The weekend of July 16 and 17 proved to be a busy one for South Brent Judo Club’s judoka.

First, an astonishing 18 players from the club presented ­themselves for grading. Then a large contingent of enthusiastic players joined Gemma Gibbons, London 2012 Olympic silver medallist, for a masterclass at Drake Judo Club, Plymouth.

All the judoka prepared well for their gradings and were able to display their techniques and explain the terminology ­confidently.

Lara Butler moved from novice to first Mon. Lottie Grundy achieved her third Mon and Martha Upton moved to fourth Mon.

Edie Grower, Nathan Lake, Mahni Clear and Sarah Ford Byron moved from fourth to fifth Mon, while Zoe Butler earned her eighth. Pierre Michelin and Cordelia Gregory both achieved their 12th Mon.

Cerys Callard and Adam Vosper moved from 12th to 13th Mon, Josh Shipp achieved his 14th Mon and Max Gregory his 16th.

Dave Ayres made the step up to six Kyu, and finally, Lewis Widdicombe earned his 16th Mon/first Kyu.

The masterclass was split into two sessions for the younger and older players. As well as learning some new techniques, the ­players all got to chat to Gemma and look at and hold her ­impressive Olympic silver medal. Gemma proved to be an amazing and gracious role model for her young fans.

At the end of the session the club presented Gemma with some special beer, courtesy of the Horse & Groom pub in Bittaford.

She was heard to say: ‘You have your own beer? Wow, you must be the best club ever.’

Thanks go to the coaches, Gary and Steve, for grading and preparing the players, as well as to Ross Taylor, Drake Judo and Gemma Gibbons for organising

a fantastic and friendly ­masterclass.

If you would like to learn more about the club’s activities, visit southbrentjudoclub.weebly.com.