Two of Herefords leading martial arts Instructors teamed up to compete at the National Ju Jutsu Kumite Council's British Open Championships held in Worcester (4th November). Dave Coles 5th dan Judo, from The Combat Academy and Simon Small 3rd Dan of Hereford Contact Karate Club united to take the British titles.
Simon Small who teaches Karate and Kickboxing for the Hereford Contact Karate Club,secured the second British title in the Mens Open Weight section. Simon scoring more of his points from punching and kicking, still displayed an array of ground work and throwing attacks to put all of his opponents under pressure.
The Competition was fought under the kumite rules of ju jutsu, which included techniques of punching, kicking, throws and takedowns, ground work, arm and leg locks along with strangulation techniques. with varying degrees of points being awarded for each technique.
Dave and Simon had worked together in preparation and coached each other at mat side, which only proves that Martial artists from different styles can unite together and exchange techniques with winning success.
Dave Coles who teaches for The Combat Academy, displayed some very good throwing and groundwork techniques on his way to taking the gold medal in the Masters open weight section. Daves most spectacular technique came in the final when a beautifully timed roundhouse kick to head completely took his opponnent by surprise. Dave also fought his way to a bronze position in the -95kg catergory being beaten only by the eventual winner.
