Irfon Judo Club in Wales are about to pass the 100 active members milestone

Irfon Judo Club in Builth Wells opened their doors to their community and judoka across the country for their latest Open Day as children flocked to Welsh town.

Irfon Judo Club, which was formed in 1977, is best known as being the club which nurtured the talents of world bronze medallist and former world number one Natalie Powell (GBR).

Natalie Powell (GBR) became the first Welsh judoka to win a Worlds medal last year in Budapest

Aside from playing an integral role in the career of 16-time Grand Prix medallist and IJF World Judo Tour star Powell, the club is a key part of Builth Wells’ sporting offering. With 95 active members the club is thriving and that is thanks to the passion of the coaching staff and club members and the engaging activities such as their latest Open Day.

Senior club coach Richard Jones outlined the goal of the Open Day and how the children reacted to one of the club’s key dates on their busy calendar.

“The goal of our open days is to integrate our young people together with other young people from other clubs,” said Jones, who was part of a club delegation who received the British Judo Association’s coveted Club of The Year Silver Award in 2016.

Open Day fun at Irfon Judo Club: Top left - Richard Jones

“These day’s are open for everyone to take part, old and young, it is a great opportunity to come and train in an different club location and I welcome club coaches to also come along and exchange ideas and knowledge and also take part and do a little coaching as well.

“It is important for the young people to learn how training days are the key to future success in partnerships with competitions.”

Since 2017 the club has added a second location to service the growing demand for judo in the region.

Irfon Judo Club judoka are regular medallists at regional and national events

“In June 2017 I decided to expand and run two sessions a week, one in Builth Wells and a second night in Brecon. Everyone is made welcome and we have had many members through the dojo over the years and now we are looking forward to welcoming the next generation of young people to the sport of judo. “

Irfon Judo Club hosts their next Open Day on Sunday 3 June at Builth Wells Sports Centre. The session is open to children and adults from 12.45pm to 5.45pm at Builth Wells Sports Centre, Builth Wells, Powys, LD2 3BW.

Click here to visit the club’s official website for more information.

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