L-R back row: Rhiannon Davies, Amir Jiwa Walji. Middle row: Iwan Harries, Rhys Higgins, Anthony Highes, Aeron Bickerdike. Front row: Josh Richards, Chris Scourfield, Tom Williams.

Nine youngsters from Carmarthen Judo Club, Old Llangunnor Road, recently undertook a grading at the Club under the auspices of two Welsh Judo Association coaches.

The grading is divided into two parts - theory and practical. The theory tests the applicants knowledge, in Japanese, of the throws, holds and referee terms used in Judo. The practical takes the form of fighting utilising the skills taught at the Club.

Each of the students had prepared well for this moment learning the theory throughout their instruction at the Club. It was to their credit that each one of them passed the test with excellent results. The practical proved to be a sterner test with the fighting fierce and determined.

The grading was a success for each of the candidates. They all graded and showed skills and abilities which will prove an asset in their judo careers.

The grades were as follows: Rhiannon Davies 6th. Mon, Aeron Bickerdike 3nd. Mon, Josh Richards 3rd. Mon, Anthony Hughes 3rd. Mon, Iwan Harries 3rd. Mon, Amir Jiwa Walji 3rd. Mon, Rhys Higgins 3rd. Mon, Tom Williams 4th. Mon and Chris Scourfield 5th. Mon.

There were two young men refereeing for the first time Jac Davies and Gethin Jones. This was a demanding role for both who will soon be attending a refereeing course arranged by the Welsh Judo Association.