The rise of a young judo star from Brookmans Park continued after she retained her British championship.

Emma Almond won gold at the 2023 U12 British Minors Judo Championships, becoming British National Champion for the second year in a row.

Entering as reigning champion - having won the U28kg category in 2022 - she entered the U32kg category in a group of 12 girls, and Emma battled her way to the final, which was a straightforward affair that saw her win in just 21 seconds.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Emma was delighted with her victory.Emma was delighted with her victory. (Image: Ben Almond)

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"I’m happy to win today, but the other girls fought so well and I know I will need to keep training to keep up with them," she said.

This year has seen Emma dominate the judo circuit, competing in 42 competitive fights, winning 39 and losing just three times.