Two Salmon Arm teens are headed to Richmond for the 2013 Canadian Judo Championships. Lucy Grainger and Naomi Chan will compete for Team BC at the Richmond Olympic Oval July 4 to 7.
This is Grainger’s second time competing at Nationals. She attended in 2010 but says she feels more prepared this time. Heading into the competition with five years of experience, she will compete in the U-21 category.
“It’s a good experience,” said Grainger. “I’m going to fight hard and do my best.”
This is Chan’s first time competing at Nationals and she is mainly going to gain experience. She will compete in the U-15 category. Chan has been practicing judo for two years. Both girls train at the Vernon Judo Club and the Salmon Arm Judo Club.
There is no provincial competition but rather several tournaments and training camps throughout the year. Qualification includes being selected by Judo BC by gaining enough points at each event. Competitors must possess at least a green belt.
“They have camps after and they teach you new things, so I’m looking forward to learning,” Chan said of attending the event.
Grainger said she’s going for experience but is also looking forward to competing with past rivals.
“I like competing, I like fighting,” she said. “That’s why I’m going.”