Monday 23 January 2012

British Closed Competition - 21 and 22 January 2012


On Saturday Natasha Maslen and Renz Vallerja competed at the Junior GB Trials (British Closed). Renz came showed massive improvement from his performance the previous weekend to get the bronze medal which is a huge achievement considering he only went to the competition for experience!

Natasha Maslen also came back from last weekend’s competition by fighting her way to the silver medal position. Tora Judo Kai picked up two of the four medals won by competitors from the Western area.

In the Senior competition on Sunday Natasha fought against three girls who are currently in the 2012 Olympic squad, showing her potential as she gave them all a tough fight. Although she lost all her fights it was a successful day as she proved she can hold her own against women in the Olympic squad, despite a tiring day's competition the day before. Overall it was a very good weekend's showing from Tora Judo Kai.

Monday 16 January 2012

Dutch Cup - 14 and 15 January 2012


Three of Tora Judo Kai’s competitors were selected to represent the Western Area at the Dutch Cup. This is a prestigious international competition with Judokas taking part from around Europe and beyond including Holland, Belgium, France, Germany and as far as South Africa.

Rebecca Maslen had two fights against a French girl and a Dutch girl who were both very strong Judokas and unfortunately she lost both fights. Renz Vallejera had one fight against a German player who was also very strong, and Renz lost this fight.

Natasha Maslen was there demonstrating her great judo skills but was unfortunate to lose to a Dutch girl whom she has previously beaten.

In her capacity as West of England coach, Judy Maslen was at the competitiong coaching all the players. Although no medals were taken all had fantastic time and made many friends.

Monday 9 January 2012

Welsh Kyu Grade competition weekend - 8 January


After starting judo at our 10 week Adults Beginner's Course in the Autumn, Kelly, John and Phil all entered the Welsh Kyu grade competition. They all came away with a gold medal after performing some fantastic Judo and showed some great Judo spirit. John demonstrated his wide knowledge of judo techniques while Kelly showed initiative. Phil performed the best throw of the day (O Goshi). A big well done must go to Judy Maslen who has helped everyone on the beginners course and continued coaching them at the competition. Mark Maslen refereed at the highest level and was selected to help two junior referees, showing patience and helped them all day.

Elsewhere, Natasha Maslen had travelled up to Sheffield to train with the England squad where she trained with competitors all around the country.

Presentation of England tracksuits


Tora Judo Kai President Dave Chappell 5th Dan Judo was very proud to present three students, Renz Vallajera (15), Lorna Gibbins (17) and Natasha Maslen (18) with their England tracksuits at the thriving local club in Pill. Dave Chappell said, "We are delighted to have helped these brilliant young athletes in their achievements."

The club has had a very successful year with club members taking medals at national level including gold medals for Steve Chappell and Paul Hepburn at the British National Kata Championships. Natasha Maslen took gold at the Scottish Open and bronze at the National Age Band Championships.

Renz, Lorna, Natasha and her twin sister Rebecca were part of the West of England Teams that took bronze medals at the National Team Championships.

2012 will see Tora Judo Kai members competing nationally and internationally at the Dutch Cup, GB Trials, (Junior & Seniors) and Arlon in Belgium in January.

Ladies Self Defence

Six week ladies self defence course, presented in conjunction with Bushido Budo Kai and hosted by Sensei Alan Poyzer. Beginning Wednesday 11th January, 7.30-9pm, at the John Wesley Memorial Hall, Bryant's Hill, St George, Bristol BS5 8QS. Total cost £30. For further information and to book your place please contact Alan on 07866 124040 or email alanpoyzer@yahoo.co.uk