Michael Horley selected for World Championships in Japan

It was Michael Horley’s Granddad, Harold Wilkinson, who persuaded him to go down to the Judo Clubs, at Warwick Bridge, Brampton and Carlisle when he was nine years old. It was more to get him fit than keep him off the streets but the moment he stepped on the mat and, under the watchful eye of his coaches including Dave Hughes, a world veterans medallist, at the Kobayashikwai in Carlisle, when he threw someone Michael was hooked.

After a few years of improving his skill and winning contests it was suggested that he travel to Kendal on a regular basis to get a better practice. With National Support Coach, and Kendal judo Club’s senior coach, Mike Liptrot as mentor it wasn’t long before Michael started to win national medals, and the two days a week turned into full time training and the start of an international career.

The training at this level doesn’t come easy. A typical day in Michael’s life is: - 6.30am a one-hour or six mile run up and over Scout Scar or the golf course; after breakfast 2 hours technique training. Early afternoon comes 2 hours weight training and in the evening another 2 hours Randori.

Add to this the International training camps and competitions he has to attend in order to get the necessary top quality experience. This year alone Michael has been to Japan (for 3 weeks) Sweden, Turkey (European U23 Champs 5th place), Paris, Belgium, Brazil (2 Bronze medal), Spain, Russia, Minsk, Germany. In 2006 he was American Open Champion beating players 30 and 40 kilos heavier than himself.

Like most sports in this country he mostly funds these himself, although he has had help from Cumberland Educational Foundation and, of course, his parents.

Has it all been worthwhile? Well yes! For Michael has just been selected to represent Great Britain at the World Judo Championships being held in Japan next month. Sadly his Granddad died a little while ago and will not able to see how well his suggestion all those years ago turned out. A good result here and London 2012 is a strong possibility.