In action were younger fighters Jack Baxter (U27 Yellow) Tom Kirk, Luke Smith & Louie Baylis (All U34 Yellow), Toby Roberts and Oliver Baldwin (U46 Orange /Green) and Oliver Bergqvist (U50 Orange /Green), as well as James Preston-Howes (under 16yrs -60kg).
This was a big step up for Camberley’s young contingent of yellow belts. Jack was effectively fighting up a weight category in U27 and unfortunately had to withdraw after his first fight with an injury. Nevertheless he had put in a good performance against a very strong opponent. Tom, Luke and Louie all fought well and each won one of their three fights. It was good experience for these young fighters who will undoubtedly be challenging for the medals next year.
It was also a tough day for the Green belts. Oliver Baldwin continues to show improvement and despite losing his two fights made it hard work for both opponents. Oliver Bergqvist had a very tough draw and did well to post a score against an English Squad Player in his first fight before being thrown himself. His second contest was against a significantly bigger fighter and despite starting well he was countered when turning in.
Toby Roberts put in the strongest performance of the day and won two of his first three fights with well worked leg throws. His 10 point scoring o-uchi gari (major inner reaping throw) in the third fight, will have pleased his coaches greatly. He was unfortunate to lose his fourth fight against an opponent who had never threatened and had been extremely fortunate to be awarded a minor score for a counter throw.
James Preston-Howes who fought in the under 16years -60kg fought well and won 2 fights and lost 2 giving him the 5th place.
It’s rare for this group of Juniors to come away from a competition without medals but they should not be disheartened as the standard of Judo throughout the day was very high and they all demonstrated much potential. Next year it will be a completely different story!
