Matside Magazine May 2016 Back Issue

OUR PARALYMPIANS ARE SET FOR RIO

Doesn’t time fly? It seems like only yesterday that our British Judo VI squad were entering the final stages of preparation ahead of London 2012, and here we are – four years later – ready to embark on another adventure in beautiful Rio de Janeiro.

In many ways, London 2012 will always be a tough act to follow. The added flavour of it being a home Games, paired with the successes of both Sam Ingram and the now retired Ben Quilter, made the 14th instalment of the Paralympics one to remember for our British Judoka.

However, fast forward to the present day and we see one of the most exciting groups of VI Judo athletes we’ve ever nurtured ready to test their skills on the world stage and battle it out for medals. As well as the return of two-time Paralympic medallist, Sam Ingram, our 2016 VI squad includes three further athletes all making their debut on the Paralympic stage; Jono Drane, Chris Skelley and Jack Hodgson.


NIGEL DONOHUE: THE TRADEMARKS OF BRITISH JUDO

In the world of competitive judo, the ability to gain an edge, no matter how small, over your opponent can be absolutely vital for achieving success. An elite judoka’s life revolves around finding the optimal blend of physical and mental training in order to reach peak performance at the perfect time. As a former professional athlete, British Judo Performance Director, Nigel Donohue, knows only too well the importance of sound preparation, and he’s been working doggedly in the wings to develop our Trademarks of Judo.

COLUMNISTS
Euan Burton
Kate Howey

FEATURES:
Technique Focus
So you want to be a referee?
Classic Match: Ben Quilter vs Hirai Takaaki
The Kids Corner
Jimmy The Judo Lion
Club Focus: Grimsby Judo