Hereford based Judo player and Combat Academy coach Stan Cantrill travelled to Japan and competed in the in the 5th World Masters Judo Championships. The championships were staged at the Kodokan in Tokyo, the birthplace of Judo over a century ago. The event made history as the biggest international competition ever, with almost 1000 entrants
In his age and weight catagagory Stan lost on a decision in extra time to the current Pan-Am champion, he then went on to beat his next three opponents within the first minutes of each contest.
He then came up against an ex world champion Hidieo Mitsuhashi, who Stan threw for a minor score but was then strangled. So no medals this time for Stan in his weight category.
On the Friday after a few more days of acclimatisation Stan competed in the open category where he was the lightest player in the group. After throwing a USA champion, he lost on a decision; he then beat his next opponent, lost to a Northern Ireland player ending up with a hard-earned bronze medal. Because this medal has Kodokan written on it, this medal takes pride of place in Stan's collection.
Stan would like to thank all the companies and individuals who helped him to achieve a lifetime's ambition to practice Judo at the Kodokan these include people who helped him in all sorts of sponsorship and assistance. They include - The Hereford Journal (for featuring the article), Chadds of Hereford (luggage), Dave Walker Buildings, V Chorley & Len Gee's Restaurant for financial assistance. Dave Coles from the Combat Academy and the Judo players from the Hereford, Irfon, 6-10 & Solihull Judo clubs who he has trained with.
