The recent Easter weekend marked another milestone in the long-established sporting twinning exchange between Midsomer Norton Judo Club and its counterpart, ASA Ambares Judo Club, in Ambares et Lagrave, south-west France. The friendship between the two clubs, which has existed for 32 years, has enjoyed a reciprocal arrangement each year around this time.
On the preceding Wednesday evening, thirteen members of the local Judo club commenced the long journey to the French town by road and upon arrival, were received with the usual cordial and fond welcome complemented by a high level of hospitality which continued throughout the duration of the visit.
During the visit, the French hosts provided a programme of social, cultural and Judo events, which kept everyone busy. This included a canoeing adventure along the Dordogne river; a visit to the famous UNESCO site at La Roque Saint-Christopher where civilisations have existed since prehistoric times until the Medieval period; a cultural tour of Bordeaux and two Judo events on the Friday and Saturday involving technical training and competition. The Midsomer Norton Judo Club players performed well during the competitions displaying good techniques, skills and a highly competitive spirit.
At the formal presentation event, both clubs pledged a commitment to continue the exchange and ASA Ambares Judo Club was invited back to Midsomer Norton in 2017.
It should be recorded that all the junior members of Midsomer Norton Judo Club were extremely well behaved throughout the visit and are indeed a credit to their families and the club. Sincere thanks go to Mark Comer and the local Judo Club committee for organising such a memorable event.
Martyn Russell