FOUR members of Melbourn Judo Club travelled to Thetford for the Eastern Area Gradings on Sunday. James Nisbet was the first to compete, winning only one of his contests, and by his own standards had a disappointing day. Despite this, he was still promot

FOUR members of Melbourn Judo Club travelled to Thetford for the Eastern Area Gradings on Sunday.

James Nisbet was the first to compete, winning only one of his contests, and by his own standards had a disappointing day. Despite this, he was still promoted from 6th to 7th Mon (Orange Belt 1).

Oliver Wheeler, had a brilliant day, winning all three of his fights in splendid style, and based on his opponents grades won promotion from 6th to 9th Mon (Orange 3).

Kellie Lucken, having her first British Judo Association grading, had three fantastic wins to gain promotion to 12th Mon (Green 3).

Star of the day, was Megan Sorensen, who at 12th Mon (Green 3) was looking for promotion to grades within the Blue belt range, 13th, 14th, or 15th Mon.

With two formidable wins, this looked assured, but Megan was then used to assess two other higher graded players. Megan beat both players again with impressive scores and style, and the two examiners had no option, but to promote her to 16th Mon (Brown 1).

This very impressive performance was noticed by area officials, and is almost certain to be selected to represent the area at the National Team Championships in May.

The previous day had seen 22 members attend promotion examinations at Royston Leisure Centre.

All 14 newcomers who joined the club in the autumn had progressed so well that the club's coaching team brought forward the exams.

All the newcomers were successful, with grades awarded from 1, 2, or 3 "mons" on their Red Belts. Eight members who had graded previously were also assessed, with some excellent performances at all levels.

The following members achieved promotions: Red 1: Megan Porter, Imogen Ranner, Oliver Streubel, Luke Townsend.

Red 2: Henry Beagles, Shona Clalcher, Seth King, Abigail Ranner, Mike Wood.

Red 3: Duncan Clacher, Anand Solanki, Tom Wood, Oliver King, Daniel Pedder.

Yellow 2: Ashley Wilkins, Tom Campbell, Jonathan Long, Navim Latchman.

Yellow 3: Luke Bateman, Charlie Murphy, Tom Carter, Charles Triggs.

Two weeks ago, the club hosted a World Class Start Programme session. The five hour training session was attended by 56 of the top cadet (12 to 19 years) players in the South of England.

The session was led by David Southby, the eastern area technical director of coaching, who chose the leisure centre for its quality facility and its prime location relative to the players involved.