A Brief update from the Chair of some key events and recent news from November:
Hi Judo Community,
Well, another month has flown by – and, by all accounts, another busy and successful one for JudoScotland (granted – there is always more we can do!!)
The first major event of the month was the Scottish Closed Championships at the sportscotland National Centre in Largs. Both the venue and the presentation of the event, looked amazing – thanks to all the Team involved! The event started punctually, ran to time, and, based on feedback I heard from coaches, members and families who were there, was very well received. They particularly commented on the Telegram app that was used to keep attendees updated – taking us to a higher level of delivery. Thanks go to Rosanna for that one! On a personal note, I experienced the great joy of a broken-down car and being towed back home at the end of the day. On a brighter note, during the journey, I did manage to convert the AA driver to the benefits and values of judo for his grandkids! Three more potential members there!
The following weekend, JudoScotland attended the British Judo Awards in Warwick, where myself and Judith hosted tables. JudoScotland members were nominated for a number of awards and it was an excellent and successful event. Congratulations go to the five winners: Billy Rodman, Stuart McWatt and Gordon McCathie for their outstanding contributions to the judo community and demonstration of our values, Hamilton Judo Club for their outstanding work around inclusion, and, in particular to Susie Wright, who once again won the Roy Inman award, recognising her overall contribution to the sport. This is certainly one of the most successful events from a Scottish perspective that I’ve been to over the years, well done to all!
It was also great to see some members of the 1972 Olympic Team there, including medallists Angelo Parisi and Dave Starbrook MBE, plus our very own Eddie Mullen (whom I had a good catch-up with). After the official event, I had a brilliant knees-up with the 2 legends that are Dave Starbrook and Olympian Peter Donnelly. Dave – the watch is in the post!
On a more personal note, the last weekend in November saw a reunion in Manchester with ‘The Kendal Boys’. These were the extremely hard-working, full-time athletes that I spent the most productive part of my fighting career with – training and competing. One of them – who was also there reminiscing – was our very own, Gary Edwards, National Talent Development Coach. It was great to catch up.
Another individual I’d like to mention this month is Chris Murphy of Shettleston Judo Club who won Gold at the Virtus Oceania Asia Games – a tournament for elite athletes with an intellectual impairment. As you know JudoScotland supported Chris and are absolutely delighted with his performance. Congratulations Chris – now for the Global Games!
Over the last few days, I’ve been reviewing the materials for the next Board of Directors meeting. Whilst reading Judith’s report I’ve been astounded at the sheer amount of work that’s been – and is being – delivered since the last Board Meeting. I also noted that as well as being on top of all of the day-to-day operations, Judith has also made time in November to visit two clubs – Sportif and Pro-Judo.
And that’s it for this month. Remember – this is only the tip of the iceberg. There’s lots more going on that I can’t hope to cover in this short update. Hopefully, we’ve captured everything on the website, but, if we do miss anything – or you have a piece of news – please let us know. Similarly, if you have anything to discuss, please get in touch with us and help us all on our journey.
Thanks,
Marc Preston, Chairman, 6th Dan