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The
2011 London Open International attracted over 600 judoka at the
humid London Soccer Dome in Greenwich on Saturday 4 and Sunday
5 June.
The
two-day competition in North Greenwich featured alongside a host
of martial arts such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu which was produced
by Seni who stage a bi-annual martial arts expo in the capital.
Judoka
and officials come from across the world including contingents
from France, Hungary, Germany, New Zealand, Macedonia, Ghana and
the Netherlands.
Karen
French, London Development Manager, said: “Saturday was a scorcher
and praise can only go to the Organisers and officials who dug
in and showed great support to Judo and the London Area and to
the Competitors who gave outstanding performances.
“
The venue was quite different from any used by the London Area
and - although it did have its limitations and difficulties setting
it up – the spectators, coaches and competitors were very understanding
and positive.
“I also caught a glimpse
of some of the other sports such as Kurash – where 30 senior judoka
also took part – as the similarities to judo without newaza gave
them an advantage.
“Sunday was a lot cooler
for the senior and masters event and the venue was not as hot
as the day before as we got used to our new surroundings and the
extra space and layout and canteen and catering was much appreciated.
“The London Area would
like to thank everyone for the support they have given to establish
this event on the calendar – for the help with mats and mat moving
and for their camaraderie – which has given them the drive to
look forward to 2012 and beyond.”
2011 IBSA World Games silver
medallist and VI star Lesley Reid was in action and come out on
top in the senior and masters version of the over 78kg category
to collect two gold medals.
2011
London Open International results
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