British Karate Federation 2009

Wado UK Karate group had a great weekend recently at the British Karate Championships in Edinburgh. This competition is the most prestigious event in the competition calendar, with top class Karate-Ka from all over the British-Isles competing for medals. The competition took place at the Meadowbank Stadium in Edinburgh, over the weekend of 5th 6th September. It was an incredibly busy weekend with competitor numbers somewhere in excess of 1400.

British Karate Federation 2009

Wado-UK sent a squad of 10 competitors of all ages and they proved themselves worthy of 4 Kumite, (fighting) medals by the end of the competition. Saturday saw the 14 yrs and over categories and was to provide two of the medals which Wado-UK won.

The first of these was to go to James O’Connor of the St Nicholas Dojo. James was competing in the cadet 16-17 yrs section of the competition and after working hard through the rounds found himself in the final against current European champion, Ryan Jay. James fought a valiant battle, but against such strong opposition had to settle for what was in reality an amazing silver medal.

The second medal was to go to Barry Meanwell of the Woodford Dojo in the senior men’s event. Barry has, over the years proved himself to be a formidable opponent to any opposition and today was going to be no different. Barry also fought his way through the rounds, finding his semi-final opponent to be former Commonwealth champion Craig Burke. Barry is considerably smaller than Craig but gave him plenty to think about. With the match all square with just 13 seconds remaining the tension was high. Unfortunately Barry’s hopes were dashed as he conceded a point just at the end of the bout. This left Barry in the bronze medal position, a fantastic achievement against such experienced opposition.

Sunday was to see the end of the competition, but not the end of medals for Wado-UK. Two more bronze medals would be won in the under 13 yrs groups, thanks to former British girl’s champion Jessica Bates and current Northern area champion Jessica Newton. Jessica Bates from the St Nicholas Dojo won this event last year as an eight year old in Sheffield and was hoping to retain her title. Unfortunately she had to settle for a bronze medal on this occasion, but at such a young age she will be back in the future. Jessica Newton from the Shin-Ken Dojo finished things off for the local Karate stars, in her 12-13 yrs category. Jessica battled hard through her bouts to secure the final bronze medal for the group.

Other people who deserve a mention for representing the group are Joe Munro, Leah Brettell, Aaron Brettell, Matthew March, Thomas Balaam-Reed and Nathan Bates. Thanks also to the coaches for their hard work and the supporters who travelled a long way to cheer the competitors on.

Three bronze and one silver medal for the group was a fantastic achievement, after what was a fantastic weekend.

Thanks to everyone concerned.

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