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Ultimate Judo Shines at the National Grading Examination in Ravenscraig

Ultimate Judo athletes before the National Grading Examination in Ravenscraig

The team from Ultimate Judo made a serious impression at the National Judo Grading Examination held at Ravenscraig Sports Centre, Motherwell. Taking a squad of eight judoka, it proved to be one of the club’s strongest competitive performances to date.

Every athlete fought with focus, composure, and true fighting spirit — a clear reflection of the hard work happening on the mats week after week.

From the first contest to the final line-up, our judoka showed confidence in their grips, smart tactical Judo, and the kind of heart that defines this club.

Individual Highlights:

  • Steven Strathie – unfortunately had to withdraw due to a rib injury. It was a sensible team call not to risk further damage — smart, professional, and mature.

  • Keith Hobbs – newly promoted to brown belt, fought his first national grading and came away with a solid 15 points. Tough fights but brilliant experience for him.

  • Ethan Wood – started strongly against teammate Josh, showing great control and movement before a shoulder injury brought his day to an early close.

  • Lloyd Cameron – back competing the day after another event! Showed massive heart, great gripping, and composed Judo throughout. On another day, those points could easily have been his.

Then came Callum, Arran, Hannah, and Josh, all of whom won two contests each to earn their line-up chances.

  • Callum was sharp, dominant, and unlucky not to progress further after a close first line-up match.

  • Arran, celebrating his birthday, produced some powerful throws and won his first line-up fight before being edged out in the second.

  • Hannah had an outstanding day — fighting with determination, skill, and courage. Often up against heavier and more experienced opponents, she proved she absolutely belonged at that level.

  • Josh Davidson delivered a standout performance — at just 16 years old, he became Ultimate Judo’s youngest ever member to win his line-up in a National Dan Grade Examination. He powered through his contests with confidence, smart tactics, and clean technique. Only the theory remains before he earns his 1st Dan black belt.

The weekend’s results prove that Ultimate Judo is more than capable of competing — and thriving — at the national level. The club’s standard continues to rise, with every judoka showing growth, confidence, and true team spirit.

A huge thanks goes to Coach Stuart Sim for his support and guidance throughout the event. The future looks bright for Ultimate Judo, and this weekend was another clear step forward.

Ultimate Judo – Always Forward.

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