A brief update from the JudoScotland Chair, Marc Preston, on activity in May.
May proved to be another busy and productive month across the organisation.
Congratulations to everyone who displayed courage and attended the Clyde Grand Prix at the start of the month. The feedback was excellent, and the event ran very smoothly, well done to all involved.
Early in the month, I met with Judith and Rosanna Wood, Marketing and Communications Manager at JudoScotland. Rosanna had the great idea of hosting a podcast, with Judith interviewing me in my role as Chair, exploring the complexities—the highs and the challenges—of the position. We recorded it in a relaxed setting at the Lost Shore Surf Resort in Ratho, sitting outside in deckchairs, enjoying the sunshine. I hope you all enjoy listening when it’s released later this month!
On the 6th, Judith and I met again with Sarah Birrell, sportscotland’s Partnership Manager for judo, to discuss the latest developments and keep sportscotland updated on activity within JudoScotland. I would like to extend my thanks to Sarah for the time and support she consistently gives our organisation, it is always a pleasure working with you.
On a personal note, from 15th–17th May, I had the pleasure of spending a weekend in Madrid with a wonderful group of long-standing judo friends. It marked the final part of my 60th birthday celebrations, and I’d like to thank them all for making it so special. I had a fantastic weekend—thank you all!
On 20th May, we received wonderful news that JudoScotland has been successful in receiving an award from the Summer of Sport fund. Thanks to Tony Penfold and Club Support Officers Sam & Rebecca for their work behind the scenes to prepare the successful application. This fund will be utilised directly to support our affiliated judo clubs with activities designed to help more people get involved in judo – exciting times ahead!
On the 26th, we held our Board of Directors meeting, which was once again highly productive. A number of key policies were reviewed, and we were pleased to include time with sportscotland’s High Performance Manager for judo, Abigail Hewitt, who gave an insight into Sportscotland’s long term plans. My thanks, as always, go to the Board for their continued commitment.
The Judo month concluded on 30th May with the Granite City Grand Prix, another great success—well done to all the volunteers, participants and travelling parents/ spectators.
Finally, I would like to thank our Vice Chair, Sandy Hodge, for our regular Monday catch-ups—they really help set the tone for the week ahead.
Marc Preston, 7th Dan