Gendros Judo Club aces back on the medal rostrum in France

Gendros Judo Club youngsters Joshua O’Connor and William Jones are building a reputation for themselves on the continent after the pair both medalled in France for the second time in four months.

In December, William took gold at the prestigious Harnes International while Joshua captured bronze, as they won 10 out of 11 contests.

The pair showcased their talents at the Tournoi de Maubeuge on Saturday and shone against a field brimming with talent from across the continent.

In the -50kg category, Joshua, son of Gendros’ head coach Mark O’Connor, defeated France’s Khalid Ozdikhanov and followed up with victory over fellow home judoka Imran Nemmiche.

In the semi-final the Welsh ace triumphed over Romain Deruyter and was edged out in the final against Antoine Lepoutre to take a hard-earned silver medal.

Silver medallist Joshua O’Connor

In the -55kg category, William Jones started his event by defeating France’s Samuel Hecquet.

William saw off France’s Pierrick Flahaut before triumphing against Luxembourg’s Erwan Eggermont.

In the final the Brit lost out to Zachary Latris of Belgium.

Silver medallist William Jones

Gendros Judo Club train on a Monday and Friday from 18.45 – 20.15 at Gendros Community Centre, Swansea, SA5 8DP.