Judo: Cox poised to make mark and confirm Olympic berth
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.At the age of 22, the Lancashire lightweight Sophie Cox is ideally poised for making her mark at the top international level - and the three-day European championships, starting today, gives her the perfect chance, having taken a silver and two bronzes in the Olympic qualifying events this year.
With her gritty fighting style, Cox, who now trains at the National Judo Academy at Bisham, is a worthy successor to Nicola Fairbrother, who held the weight category with such distinction. Ranked third in Europe, Cox should see her Athens place confirmed today as well as winning a medal.
It will be more tense for Winston Gordon, 27, the middleweight who is in the ninth and final Olympic qualifying place. With medals and placings worth double Olympic qualifying points, rivals could edge him out if he does not fight well.
Of the four Britons qualified for Athens, only the featherweight Georgina Singleton and the heavyweight Karina Bryant are here - Craig Fallon and Kate Howey choosing tactical avoidance. Bryant, 25, is aiming for match fitness. Injury has prevented her from competing all year. As the world silver medallist, she is a real Olympic hope.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments