YOUNG JUDO CLUB HISTORY

 

 

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The oldest of the Swale Martial Arts Club affiliated clubs is the Young Judo Club, established in 1957 by Nobby and Margret Clarke. This husband and wife team started the YJC so their sons Martin and Norman could have somewhere to train, as in the 50's children were discouraged from doing Judo. The YJC was the first junior Judo club in Kent and is one of the oldest in the country. At its peak in the mid 70's the club had over 20 branches throughout the South East of England. Now there is just the original club in Sittingbourne, Milton Regis, Bredgar, Bexley and Bromley.


During it's history, the club has produced over 500 Black Belts, the highest grade being Martin who is a 8th Dan (See all Martin's accomplishments on his bio). At various periods in its history, its members have taken part in most of the major Judo association's championships and represented them in Internationals events. Margret Clarke 4th Dan was awarded the Sports Council's "Sport for All Award" for her services to Judo. Also catering for Adult Judo practitioners is the Carmel Judo Club. For times of classes, see the timetable