International success for local Judo players

It was a fantastic achievement for the North-West Judo representatives who competed against the cream of youth Judo clubs from across Europe at an event which attracts in the region of 1,000 entries.

Thomas Stainsby won gold in the U37 kg category while Stephen McLaughlin claimed silver in the U46 kg. Other medal winners for Samurai Uladh were Sarah Jane Porter (Bronze U25 kg), Callum Nash (Bronze U34 kg) and Gareth Townley (Bronze U46 kg).

Seven other club members competed at the competition, gaining valuable experience against top class opposition in an international arena.

The other Samurai Uladh members who competed at the event were - Niall Gallagher (U30 kg), Joshua Green (U34 kg), Patrick Doherty (U37 kg),Thomas McGarry (U41 kg), Oisin McLaughlin (U50 kg) and Kathleen McNaught (U63 kg).

The 12 fighters were accompanied to the tournament by club coaches Seamus Gallagher, Paul Green,Tony McLaughlin and Donna Nash.

Commenting afterwards, club coach, Donna Nash highlighted the significance of the local youngsters' achievements.

"This was a magnificent achievement for the club," she said. "Any medal won at this tournament is hard earned and to come away with a gold, silver and three bronze is simply fantastic.

"The fact that we were the only club from Ireland to win a medal at the tournament underlines the value of these medals. We are very proud of the 12 fighters who represented our club so well."

A special mention also to Jamie McFadden, Tiernan McGilloway and Sarah McDaid from fellow Londonderry Judo club, Long Tower who competed at the tournament but narrowly missed out on medals.

Normal club training for Samurai Uladh resumes on Saturday at Templemore Sports Complex from 9.30am to 10.30am for children aged 5-7 years-old; from 10.30am to 11.30am for 8-11 years-olds and from 11.30am to 12.30pm for those 12 years and older. New members always welcome.