Eastwood Judo Club Shines with Medals at US Open Championships!
Eastwood Judo Club competed at the US Open Championships in Fort Lauderdale, earning medals and preparing for future events.
Eastwood Judo Club Shines with Medals at US Open Championships!
The Eastwood Judo Club recently made waves at the Annual US Open Judo Championships held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Centre. Led by the skilled sensei “Mickey” Munnings, the club brought a spirited team to compete against over 556 athletes from 93 countries, marking the event’s 36th year as a premier gathering for judo enthusiasts.
This annual event is not just a local gathering; it’s an important stop on the international judo calendar, comparable in stature to the World Judo Championships, which represent the pinnacle of judo competition globally, governed by the International Judo Federation. This year, the Eastwood Judo Club’s participation was particularly commendable, given the fierce competition.
Outstanding Medal Performances
In terms of accolades, the Eastwood Judo Club shone brightly. The judokas collectively brought home an impressive tally of medals: 2 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze. Among the standout performers:
- Kevin Sterling grabbed 1 gold and 1 silver medal.
- James Knowles also claimed 1 gold medal.
- Charles Thompson earned a silver medal.
- Baylee Mackey received a silver medal.
- Tiana Davis managed to snag a bronze medal.
- Keilesha Saunders rounded it out with another bronze.
Keilesha, in particular, is gearing up for the Junior Olympics taking place in Qatar in 2026, supported by a host of sponsors who have rallied behind her as she prepares for the significant event.
Looking Ahead
The excitement doesn’t stop there for the Eastwood Judo Club. The team is set to hit the mats again at the Dallas Invitational on November 22, determined to continue their winning streak. With such a robust performance at the US Open, expectations are high for what’s to come.
The art of judo has deep roots, and events like these help to cultivate talent at every level. The sport has blossomed since its Olympic debut in 1964 for men and in 1992 for women, evolving to include mixed team events since 2017. There’s a rich history to appreciate, stretching back to the first world champion, Shokichi Natsui, in 1956. Judo has truly transcended borders, with championships held across continents and participants not only honing their skills but also sharing their culture on a grand scale.
As the Eastwood Judo Club looks to the future, one thing is clear: the spirit of competition and community is alive and well. With many more tournaments on the horizon, these athletes are gearing up to showcase their dedication and skill, aiming to add more medals to their already impressive collection. The journey continues, and we can’t wait to see where it leads!