The Fernie Judo tournament took place on January 26. Eight athletes from Invermere, coach Karen Sharp, and referees Bob Gadsby and Hermann Mauthner participated.
Competitors came from Raymond, Creston, Salmo, Jaffrey, Cranbrook, Fernie as well as Invermere, with over 90 athletes competing overall. Thanks to all the parents for the rides and enthusiastic support.
As the new regulations are now in effect, the tournament started with a Kata demonstration.
Ben Oliver and Steven Clark, Graham Norquay and Graycen Oliver teamed up for the demo. Each had to perform three throws and three holddowns. They had practised all on their own and were awarded the gold level medal for their effort. Well done, keep it up!
For Marcia Paget and Emma Norquay, it was the first competition in the U15 devision. Marcia won the gold medal in her group with some well-executed ippon throws; Emma received a bronze medal.
The other gold medal was won by Graham Norquay, competing in his group against Graycen Oliver who came into the bronze medal after strong competition from Fernie, Creston and Raymond. Ben Oliver had also a strong opposition and returned with a silver medal. Tyson Hagen, Lucas Nickel and Steven Clark received bronze medals.
Congratulation to all athletes showing good sportsmanship and good judo. The next judo tournament will be held here in Invermere at David Thompson Secondary School on Saturday, February 23. Hope to see you there to watch and cheer on our athletes. See you on the tatame.
