Handel gets a grip on judo scene

Local schoolboy Rhys Handel is preparing for the British Schools Judo Championships at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield this weekend, representing Montgomery Church in Wales School.

The rising Year 6 star, who competes in the Under 38kg weight, has had a phenomenal four months of competitive Judo, taking Gold and the top step at all six of his last competitions, gaining the titles of Powys Schools Champion, Welsh Schools Regional Champion and Welsh National Champion.  He has also gained a place in the Welsh Judo Squad.

He dedicates much of his success to his coaches, Alan Jones MBE BJA 7th Dan and Sue Jones BJA 4th Dan of A J Judo Welshpool & Llanfyllin who have been widely regarded as the unsung heroes of grass roots and elite Judo in Wales.

Rhys decided he wanted to give something back to his Club and completed a sponsored cycle ride recently, raising £360 for his club.

“Rhys is a very dedicated young man who trains hard and is working well towards the British Schools Judo Championships where he will be representing his School (Montgomery Church in Wales Schoool) and Club (A J Judo Welshpool and Llanfyllin),” said Alan.

“This is a very prestigious event in the British Judo Calendar. Rhys is progressing into the talent pathway for pre-cadet in Wales, which in turn is working towards a more elite athlete that can take any challenge needed to reach the top in his tough sport of Judo.”

Rhys would like to thank everyone who has kindly donated or sponsored him so generously, and is a shining example of what sport and Judo can do for a young person’s development.

He has a very busy year ahead of him which will include national and international events and a chance to represent Wales.

For more information, visit A J Judo Welshpool & Llanfyllin on Facebook or telephone 01691 829281.