Tonbridge boy takes revenge to win third judo title in a row

Tonbridge boy takes revenge to win third judo title in a row
FAST FINISHER: Charles Jaques won the final in 11 seconds

The Yardley Court pupil was crowned the under -46kg gold medallist at the Independent Association of Prep Schools National Judo Tournament for boys aged 10 to 13 in High Wycombe on March 9.

Jaques looks set to make a big impression in the martial arts discipline, having only taken up judo three years ago.

A nervy beginning did not affect his confidence at the national event. After losing his first fight he came roaring back to finish second in the pool stages.

In the semi-finals he faced the winner of the other pool, and eventually overcame his opponent in what proved to be a difficult contest.

In the final he took revenge against the boy who had beaten him in the opening match – defeating him very quickly.

Showing impressive technique he ended the contest in just 11 seconds with a well-executed hip throw.

Charles said: “It felt amazing to beat the person who had originally got the upper hand on me in the first fight.”

He added: “I quit Taekwondo three years ago and when I started Judo at school, I instantly enjoyed it.”

His school instructor Victor Court told the Times: “Charles is a very determined young man who trains hard to gain the success that he has had.”

Fellow Yardley Court student Thomas Pateman also took part in the IAPS event, where he was defeated in the third round.

Charles is currently having a trial for the Kent squad ahead of the British Judo Kent Closed competition in Dartford.

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