Glossop Judo Club took 7 fighters over to Leicestershire to compete in the East Midlands Closed Judo Championships. 111 players from 5 counties met at the Vale of Catmose College in Rutland. In a very tough competition five of the seven fighters managed to win medal. For the first time this year nobody managed to win a gold medal but there were some impressive performances nevertheless.

Ryan Phillips and Alice Wareham both won bronze. Alice was in rather a tough heavy group of older girls but put up a spirited display. Ryan won 2 out of his 3 fights only just losing out in the semi-final. Silver medals were won by Naomi Gaskin, David Leyshon and Eric Ham. Naomi fought out of her skin against more experienced fighters to win 2 out of her 3 fights. David’s display in winning 2 out of his 4 fights was exceptional bearing in mind he injured his hand in his third fight. Eric’s won 3 of his 4 fights in super quick time only losing to the gold medallist twice after a fight off for first place.

Kyle Fletcher and James Casulli were both in groups of much older fighters. Both put up spirited displays and hopefully will get a better draw next competition.

David Leyshon and Naomi Gaskin well deserved their Player of the day trophies which were presented at the club this week.