TOP-class judo specialists from across the country competed in Salisbury at the weekend when Five Rivers Leisure Centre played host to the Salisbury Open Judo Championships.
Although the 180-strong field included adults and children who regularly compete at international level, local judo clubs acquitted themselves well and came away with a clutch of medals.
Matthew Lawless of Durrington, the youngest competitor taking part, won for his club Moonrak-ers, Salisbury took five medals, Ringwood won seven and Larkhill also managed a victory.
More than 150 spectators watched the championships which were the brainchild of local judo coach Peter Blakemore and were supported by a Millennium Award with contributions from Salisbury District Council and the Lottery Commission.
Help on the day was provided by members and parents of local judo clubs, Moonrakers and the Salisbury Unit of the Air Training Corps.
Organisers now hope that the fixture will become an annual event in the judo calendar.
The next judo competition at Five Rivers Leisure Centre is for low grade players and is to be held on Sunday, May 16.
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