29 June 2023

Scottish Samurai Cadet Honours for Sam and Tristan

The prestigious Scottish Samurai Awards were recently held at Mannofield Cricket Ground, the home of the national cricket team, in a glittering ceremony attended by a star-studded audience. The event celebrated cadets from across Scotland for their outstanding service, commitment to excellence, and embodiment of Budo values—key principles of respect, discipline, and self-improvement that lie at the heart of martial arts.

Ultimate Judo was proud to see two of its own, Sam Lynch and Tristan McCathie, recognized for their exceptional dedication to the sport of judo. Both young athletes exemplify the drive for self-improvement and the application of Budo values in their everyday lives.

Sam and Tristan’s Judo Journey

Both Sam and Tristan have shown remarkable progress in their judo journeys, training tirelessly and even traveling to Japan to immerse themselves in the birthplace of judo. Their commitment to personal and athletic growth is an inspiration to the entire club.

Tristan went a step further during the challenging lockdown period, stepping up to run Train With Tristan online sessions. These classes not only kept his teammates active and motivated but also eased the burden on Coach Gordon, who was recovering from knee surgery.

An Inspiring Ceremony

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including the Lord and Lady Provost, the Dean of the Guild of Burgesses, and other notable figures. It was a humbling experience to witness so many young individuals being celebrated for their commitment to excellence and their positive influence on their communities.

Sam and Tristan are now the first junior judokas to receive the title of Scottish Samurai—a testament to their hard work, dedication, and embodiment of the values that Ultimate Judo strives to instill in all its members.

Congratulations to All!

A huge congratulations to Sam, Tristan, and all the award recipients. Your achievements are a reminder of what can be accomplished with dedication, resilience, and a passion for excellence. We couldn’t be prouder!

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