Nearly 80 Special Olympics athletes will be taking part in the 2013 National Judo Competition (England) this weekend at Claverham Community College, Battle. They will make up the majority of the entrants, which is now approaching almost 100, in this pan-disability event.

“This is a fantastic turnout,” said Paul Everest, Technical Advisor Judo, for Special Olympics Great Britain. “When we held the last National Special Olympics competition for Judo in Great Britain in 2009 we had just over 40 athletes taking part.”

Paul puts a lot of credit for the increase in the number of competitors down to the relationship that Special Olympics GB now has with the British Judo Association. “We signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the BJA in 2011 and we are already reaping the benefits. It has helped to demonstrate how accessible Judo is for people of all ages with Intellectual Disabilities and the great job that Special Olympics does in providing training and competition opportunities for its athletes.”

Special Olympics provides a pathway for children or adults with intellectual disabilities to train and then compete at a regional, national and international sporting level. The competition on Sunday is especially important for those competitors aiming to qualify for the Special Olympics European Games in Antwerp next year, or the World Games in Los Angeles in 2015.

Karen Wallin, Chief Executive, Special Olympics GB, said: “We are really pleased that the close working between Special Olympics GB and the British Judo Association is allowing more Judo clubs to open their doors to those with learning disabilities. This can make a real difference to the lives of these athletes – not just in terms of fitness but also in breaking down barriers in society. Getting as far as this competition is a great milestone for many of our athletes and their courage and determination is inspirational.”

Attending the event will be Elaine Down, one of British Judo’s leading referees. Elaine will be coordinating the volunteer officials and referees for the event.

The competition begins at Claverham Community College at 10am on Sunday and closes around 6pm. Members of the public are welcome to come along and enjoy the event. Entry for spectators is £2.