At the annual North York Judo Tournament of Champions held at Seneca College in Toronto on Saturday, October 20, eight members of the Trent Judo Club competed against 300 judokas from across Ontario and took home an impressive seven medals.

Eric Guy, competing in the 73kg weight division and Luay Alari in the 66kg division both won gold. Two silver medals were awarded to Mike Davidson (91kg) and Lawrence Yi (66kg). Trevor Connell (81 kg), Andrew Lam (66kg), and Mike Arsenault (91kg) won bronze medals.

“It is a moving sight to see during the competition a judoka totally focused by giving everything he/she has got in that moment, although the same person might be not so attentive necessarily in class. It is the most beautiful sight. Right there, they are learning and training to stand and face the challenges of life and to come with respect, love and honor,” said Sensei Tom Hino. “When we lose or fail in life (which inevitably comes to all), we will know how to stay strong and move on owing to the competition experience. That's why everyone who fought is a winner.”

The Trent Judo Club is led by coach and Sensei Tom Hino. The club is run out of Trent Athletics Centre and is open to all members of the community. Youth and adult programs are available. For more information, including details on how to register for upcoming classes starting in January 2013, visit www.trentu.ca/athletics.