The Abbotsford Judo Club capped off a great month with members earning significant honours and the club receiving provincial recognition.
AJC member Isabelle Harris returned home from Prague with a bronze medal in the 63 kilograms division after a strong performance at the European Open event on Sept. 28 and 29.
Harris defeated Italy's Antonietta Palumbo in overtime to earn the bronze. She opened with a win over Rachel Van de Meeberg of the Netherlands, but then lost to Britain's Josie Steele. Harris followed that up with a win over Germany's Charlotte Von Leupoldt to advance to the bronze match.
"Isabelle managed to counter one of her opponent’s attacks, and she scored a major ippon," stated Canadian coach Antoine Bouchard, adding that she recovered from an injury she suffered in the summer. “The fact that she’s able to perform at this level at this point is a great sign, and I believe she’ll continue to build upon it. She’s proven that she’s ready to take the next step.”
She won a silver medal in the 2023 Pan American Games and also captured national gold in January.
Meanwhile, the AJC received several honours at the Judo BC Awards Night on Sept. 8.
Zachary Harris was named U18 male athlete of the year and Layton Keely received male coach of the year honours. The AJC was also recognized as the largest judo club in the province.
For more on the club, visit abbotsfordjudo.com.
