Estepona judo stars get 2015 off to fighting start

A TEAM of three youngsters from the RK Judo Club Estepona picked up a medal apiece at the Southfields Open Championship in Leicester, UK.

The tournament – featuring more than 200 competitors – has a reputation as being one of the toughest, and so the three Costa judo experts did their club proud in their events. Ben Barkby, weighing in at only 27 kilos, had to fight in the under 35 kilo class, a weight he would not normally compete at but the lowest weight class available at the event.

Completely unfazed by the bigger competition, Ben showed great spirit and confidence and produced some spectacular judo, only to lose out to the eventual silver and gold medallists. After six fights, Ben proudly took home the bronze medal.

Tom Whybrow went one better in a tough group of 12 fighters in the under 45 kilo category, winning the silver medal. He was up against national and international champions and he proved he has turned a corner in his fighting by sealing a win over one of the best-known fighters at the tournament.

Lisa Lindberg, the only girl to fight for RK Judo Club Estepona at the event, took part in the under 50 kilos class. Lisa’s first fight was against a current international star and taking her to full time was an achievement in itself. Lisa was unlucky to miss out by a small score in the end, but after a rough day on the mat she was awarded third place overall and took home the bronze.

With the oldest of the group only 12, it was a tremendous result for the young judo stars. For more information check out www.rkjudoclub.com

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