A Judo Commonwealth competitor has been welcomed at Kendal’s Judo Club.

The Dojo hosted the first of the Fiji Commonwealth Games judo athletes this week as Tevita Takayawa returned after an eventful journey.

Tevita has been in Japan with a Sports Scholarship training to be a Business Lawyer, however Covid problems caused him training problems. 

On his journey home, a visa mix up left him stranded at Heathrow Airport.

However, his coach put him in touch with Mike Liptrot at the Kendal Dojo. 

His coach said Mike was the ‘obvious choice’ particularly as he is the current Commonwealth Coach for Oceania having a long-time experience training international athlete.

Tevita's siblings are also due to arrive shortly at the Kendal Gerard at Plus 100 kilos and Shanice Takayawa, under 70 kilo as they prepare for the Commonwealth Games beginning July 28 in Coventry.

Tevita was greeted by members of the club, including Kendal Judo Club medallists who have just started the long hopeful journey to the next Games when they entered their first competition at South Shields at the weekend.  

Judoka Bartec Nowak won Silver having beaten last year's gold medallist along with three other opponents in his weight category.

Aidan Thexton who, in his first contest for ippon threw his opponent with Uchi Mata (Inner Thigh Throw) for the full point.  

His second contest went the same way, this time with two half point throws to get into the semi-final.  

Unfortunately, a small lack of concentration allowed his opponent in for a throw. 

This set back did not prevent Aidan from mounting a comeback and claim the Bronze Medal.

As well as Tevita arriving, the club has also had some of the Ukrainian refugees joining them on the mat learning a new skill.