Hereford based Judo player Andy Morris has recently achieved his British Judo Association Black Belt 4th Dan, making him only the third person in the history of Herefordshire Judo to do so.
Andy has been studying Judo for over 20 years, during which time he has gained numerous titles, the greatest achievement being a silver medal in the 2002 British Masters Championships, which led to him being selected for the 2003 British Masters Judo Squad.
The BJA black belt is taken in two parts, firstly during a theory exam Andy had to demonstrate a variety of throws, hold-downs, arm-locks and strangles, adding to the pressure of the test, instructions are given by the examiner in Japanese. Andy's hard work and dedication to training was reflected in his pass grade of over 90 percent.
The second part is a test of the candidates ability to fight. Competing against other 3rd Dan Black Belts (who are also trying to get their 4th Dan Black Belt), candidates must accrue 20 wins by the maximum possible 10 points (the equivalent of a knockout in boxing) in order to achieve the belt.
After several years of contests Andy entered a recent championships only three victories short of his 200 points target. Initial opponents were only of 2nd Dan status and so despite a string of victories this did not count towards his tally. However his next three opponents were all of 3rd Dan status, and three maximum point wins gave Andy the required points and the right to wear the British Judo Association Black Belt 4th Dan.
Andy is currently preparing for the World Masters Judo championships to be held in Austria in June 2004. Any local companies interested in sponsoring him can contact him through The Combat Academy. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Story by Dave Coles October 10 2003
