Olympians put through paces at Armitage
THE Ghana Olympic judo team is enjoying training with local stars as they prepare for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
They began training visits for the Commonwealth Games in Manchester back in 2022 and have enjoyed returning for a vital part of their preparations for top competitions since then.
At the heart of the visit is Chorlton star Steve Pullen MBE, a top British coach for many years.
The Ghana judo players, five men and two ladies, join in with training sessions at The Armitage Centre in south Manchester to benefit from the quality of coaching and practice as well as acclimatising to European climate conditions.
The sessions are attended by local judo players of all ages and abilities who also get valuable experience in enhancing their skills in the sport.
Among them is eightyear old Louis Salter from Cheadle Hulme, who attends Oak Tree Primary School Louis’ dad Louis said: “Louis has been doing judo since he was six and loves it.
“Two weeks ago we travelled to Goole for the under 9 judo tournament which he won
“He’s learnt discipline and commitment at a young age which will set him up in life
“He loves practicing randori with the adult class and learning new throws/moves off them
“Louis looks up to Steve MBE and he’s really interested in all Steve’s medals and trophies he’s has collected over the years
“What Steve has done for judo locally for the kids is unmatched in my opinion in any other sport and at his ripe age of 80s he’s still 6-7 days a week doing judo.
“I’m so happy that my son and I have met such a local legend and all his knowledge and stories he tells us is priceless and it was also great meet up and train with the Ghana Olympic stars.”