Poole Ju Jitsu Club Shines at the 17th Kokoro Kai & Wakarishi Championships
Seven medals, six competitors, and one unforgettable weekend – Poole Ju Jitsu Club made their mark at the 17th International Kokoro Kai & Wakarishi Ju Jitsu Course and Championships, held in Southend-On-Sea. The Essex seaside town hosted the country’s largest Ju Jitsu gathering, where practitioners showcased their skills against the very best.
Eight members of Poole Ju Jitsu travelled to the championships, two instructors, six competitors which is the highlight of the martial arts calendar, combining a traditional course and an exhilarating competition. The event began with senior instructors from the UK and Europe sharing their expertise, delivering a morning of intensive training to eager participants. The afternoon gave way to the fiercely contested championships, featuring categories like open-hand kata, weapon katas, ground fighting, random attacks, and continuous fighting.
The medal-winning streak began with duo partners Layla Diffy and Ruben Knight. Months of preparation paid off as their polished pairs demonstration earned a bronze medal in a competitive category. Ruben continued his success with a silver medal in continuous fighting, showcasing his versatility.
Adult member Carl Storrie made an impressive debut, securing a silver medal in the random attacks category – a remarkable achievement considering he only began Ju Jitsu last year. Meanwhile, junior member Layla Diffy returned to the spotlight in the ground fighting category, claiming a hard-fought gold medal.
Club instructor Jordan Miller expressed immense pride in his students’ accomplishments. “I’m tremendously proud of our members for their dedication and hard work,” he said. “Travelling such long distances to compete is never easy, but their achievements at this prestigious event are a testament to their commitment and the strength of our club.”
The team’s stellar performance not only highlights their talent but also reinforces Poole Ju Jitsu Club’s reputation on the national stage. With seven medals and countless memories, the weekend was a triumphant chapter in the club’s history.
