Sept. 2007.
Students of both the junior and senior sections of the Budo Juku Karate club, now based at the Eastover Youth Centre in All Saints Terrace, won major honours at the recent Wado Academy Championships in Stroud.
Lawrence Nicholson in his first ever contest came first place in the 10 and 11yrs event, with club mate Conner Polley coming second in a close final.
In the next age group it was one two three for Bridgwater. Ben Nash, no stranger to competitions of this sort won the 12 to 14yrs event beating Adam Guntripp in the final with Kurt Polley in third place.
In the Kata discipline Matthew Moares came third.
The seniors of the club were just as successful in their categories. Familiar names such as Ashley Gouge won the Ladies fighting for the second year running and Joseph Bale came second in a thrilling final narrowly losing to his opponent from Birmingham. Joe and Ashley then teamed up in the Mixed Team event along with Murray Torrible to win first place.
In the senior men’s Kata event Paul Cornish’s technique proved too sharp for the other seven finalists and won his first major contest after returning to training after an absence of a few years.
Budo Juku Karate Club instructor Arthur Meek says the team spirit on the day was fantastic and the results were a testament to everyone’s dedication to training. Information on Wado Ryu Karate can be obtained from Arthur on 01278 421221.
Norway Euro Cup
Joseph Bale, Ashley Gouge, Paul Cornish and Karen Meek, who has just returned from injury, are heading for Oslo, Norway for the Wado Ryu Euro Cup this month. They have been selected to represent England Wado Ryu following their successful performances at National squad sessions and competitions.