Barnsley youngsters visit Olympic host Borough of Newham

Youngsters from Barnsley Judo Club received a grant from the respective Partnership Aspiration and Achievement Fund’s from Barnsley and Newham to visit the Olympic host borough of Newham, to see sites of the Olympic park and the venue for judo at Excel.

The “train with a Judo Champion” event on Saturday 9 June was hosted by the British Judo Association in London and was held at The University of East London Sportsdock, which will be the Olympic base for Team USA.

The day was led by Nicole Nunn who showed the youngsters and coaches how to combine Judo Fit – Gymnastics for Judo and traditional and new ideas into a training session for all abilities.

There were over 50 young judoka on the mat from Barnsley and local clubs as well as the coaches and some adult participants.

Guest Coaches included Jerome Robinson Reid and Boris Kirbrik who gave an excellent demonstration and answered the youngster’s questions about their experiences and personal techniques.

Barnsley head coach Eddie Newton was quick to thank the partnership for giving the club this opportunity to travel to the capital in the Olympic year.

“Without the funding this event would not have been able to take place, Barnsley Judo Club is looking to make long lasting and fruitful relationships as a result of this event, and giving the juniors a day out to remember for the rest of their lives,” he said.

Fiona Miley Sports and Activities Manager for Newham, awarded each participant a commemorative medal specially made for events such as this and a BJA Goody bag.

Karen French London Development Manager thanked all those involved in making the day happen as well as the local clubs and judoka for their support.

“It was interesting trying to show them the locality with the London transport being postponed that weekend and the weather not being at its best – but the enthusiasm and genuine interest and love of judo was what everyone had in common,” said Karen.