Comberton Judo Club’s new dojo was officially opened on Saturday 4 June as the club hosted a masterclass with former European Champion’s Craig Fallon and Karina Bryant.

Judoka from across the country travelled to Comberton Village College to train alongside the world-renowned duo who are competing on the world circuit as they battle towards selection for London 2012 having already made five appearances at the Games between them.

Craig Fallon, 28, won the European Championships in 2006, a year after claiming world championships gold while Karina Bryant, 32, is a four-time European Champion and seven-time World medallist. The pair train full-time at Camberley Judo Club.

Their first session was open to all levels of judoka and focused on basic movement patterns with attention to posture and movement.

Craig then worked with the younger participants, asking them to demonstrate their favourite throws and then offering tips while Karina showcased her ne-waza repertoire.

After lunch all the participants warmed up before a light randori (sparring) session before finishing off the memorable day with a Q&A session as judoka asked Craig and Karina about their training and life as a performance athlete.

Bob Challis, head coach at Comberton Judo Club, said: “Craig and Karina were tremendous all day long, they were very enthusiastic and full of energy.

“It was really good to see such a spread of people, we had young British squad players, low adult grades and children all training together. One thing that is great about judo is that even young players get to meet the superstars, I don't think you see this as much in other sports.

“There was a large contingent of Anglia Ruskin and Cambridge University players joining the Comberton players and it is hoped a facility like this will encourage many members of the area to train together more frequently which would give a much higher quality of training.”

Comberton Judo Club train at Comberton Village College. For more information please email combertonjudoclub@yahoo.com.