OKEHAMPTON Judo Club enjoyed success on its visit to the Somerset Kan Geiko course and competition, which gave an opportunity for local Judoka to test and prove their skills. Aidan Bostock, aged 12, won a superb gold in the U16 competition, winning all his contests. Although he was the youngest in his group Aiden overcame a huge weight and size disadvantage in one contest and although his opponent was much stronger he managed to control and hold him when the fight went to the ground and nearly clinched it with a hold down. Ryan Spooner, 13, from the neighbouring Tedburn St Mary Judo Club also did well, gaining a bronze in the same group. At the grading the following day Aidan graded up to green belt three blue tabs, and Ryan up to green belt one blue tab. Another member of Tedburn St Mary Judo club Richard Carter did exceptionally well. He earned first senior grading having only just turned 16 years old in December and won his blue belt in spectacular fashion winning most of his fights with Ippon throws. Sensei Darren Bostock won his black belt second Dan, which was awarded to him on the day by Sensei Hosaka (Kodokan eighth Dan) — a great honour. Darren took over the running of Okehampton Judo Club in September last year from Sensei John Buxton and recently qualified as a level two coach along with Allen Carter who runs nearby Tedburn St Mary club. Judo is a great way, say club organisers, for children to build self confidence, control and respect. For more information call Darren on 0183754260 or Allen on 01647 61024 or visit the website on http://www.okejudo.co.uk">www.okejudo.co.uk.
