Unlucky Chris wins three but misses bronze (From Free Press Series)

Unlucky Chris wins three but misses bronze

TWO players from Caldicot Judokwai enjoyed success at the Northern Home Counties Open Champion-ship at High Wycombe on July 10.

Attracting judo players from all over the country, the tournament is a prestigious event on the UK judo calendar and to be a medallist at such a competition identifies you as a top fighter.

Caldicot had two entries on this occasion and returned with a bronze medal and a fifth place.

Matthew Damsell, fighting in the boys under-38kg class, took the bronze - winning five out of his six fights, while Chris Sage was defeated in his fight for bronze in the boys under-50kg group.

Matthew won his first two fights and was then beaten by the current British Champion, placing him into a knock-out group to compete for a medal. He then proceeded to defeat players in his next three fights to take the bronze medal.

This was the perfect end to a week that had seen him invited back into the Great Britain Cadet Squad.

Chris Sage, who was the lightest player in his weight category, lost his first contest to a bigger player, but won his next two fights - placing him in the same position of fighting for a bronze medal, but unfortunately on this occasion he was beaten by a stronger player on the day.

Caldicot has a long history of success at major tournaments with most of its players being local talent brought on through its training programme.

The club is about to commence another beginners course for juniors (8-16) as well as adults. The courses will start soon. If you would like further details or an information pack, call 01291 424755 or 421829.