Silver for Watson in Sydney

Callaghan Watson

Wanganui's Callaghan Watson won a silver medal in the junior boys under-50kg division at the Sydney International Judo Championships at the weekend.

Watson's older brother, Keightley Watson, fought in the over-66kg senior boys but missed out on the medal rounds.

Proud parents Ross and Barbara Watson said the brothers fought well considering it was their first tournament outside New Zealand, against judo students with an higher level of ability.

"In addition to Australian and New Caledonian fighters, there were several from New Zealand, competing with the intention of obtaining the higher level of competition."

Also at the tournament to further experience was Wanganui referee Diane Limbrey, using the tournament as a warm-up for the Oceania Judo Union Continental Open in Wollongong in November.

The remaining competition left on the calendar for local fighters is the New Zealand Championships in Tauranga in two weeks.

Both Watson brothers are also keen to gain further experience for next year by fighting in several of the Australian competitions.