The University of Brighton managed to medal at the London Universities and Colleges Open Judo Championships. The event, which is seen as a key warm up event for the British Universities Championships in February, attracts Judo players from across the South East. The event was held at University of East London’s SportsDock on Saturday 24th November.
University of Brighton’s James Draper (pictured left) won gold in the Under 60kg category and Ayan Zhumagaziyev (pictured right) wining silver in a good final. Roman Schnecker and Ryan Khademi came 5th in their weight categories, just missing out on a bronze but fought well in their first competition.
Judo features as part of the Parklife programme at the university and has been supported by British Judo and Brighton Judo Club in its set up just two years ago. The students owe a lot to volunteers from Brighton Judo Club and in particular Dave Dicker (pictured centre) who trained them up and coached them at this event. Dave hopes to take a team of students to challenge for places at the British Universities national championships on the 23rd February 2013.
Gold medallist James Draper gave more of an insight into why Judo is the sport for him.
‘I got started doing judo when I was 7 years old as something to do while my sister was doing ballet classes and I have been doing it ever since. Judo has greatly helped me develop as a person; in particular it has taught me commitment and dedication to keep training even when it starts getting hard. As well as this I have made a lot of friends through judo and have gained a lot of people skills by assisting as a coach.’
James also notes the impact of this summer’s games has had on the university’s own sessions.
‘I have seen a positive increase in judo participation after the Olympic games with people actually coming to sessions saying they saw it on TV and fancied a go. As well as seeing new people join the sport I have seen a lot of people I know who used to do judo returning back to the sport after being inspired by the games. I would tell people to come and give it a try, judo has something for everyone whether you just want something to help keep you fit or a martial art with a highly competitive sport side. The university judo club also others a great scheme where they supply you with everything you need to get started, including a judo suit.’
So why not give it go! Sessions are just £1 and take place every Thursday during term at the Falmer Sports Centre, 7-9pm. See the latest Parklife programme for details.