RYAN Pitcock did Samurai Judo Club proud with two gold medals and a silver at the British Kurash Championships in St Albans in Hertfordshire.

Kurash is a form of Russian wrestling similar to standing judo and players occasionally enter events in the discipline for a break from the main sport.

Pitcock breezed through the youth event to clinch the gold with style and took another top prize in the full senior event after a fine display of spirit and skill.

His second category triumph included an excellent win over an experienced judo fourth dan with both players showing each other a refreshing mutual admiration.

Pitcock's attempts at treble gold were ended by a heavier player in the final of the open weight category, but despite being only 62 kilos he still secured silver.

Former Samurai player Amy Millington also took two silvers, in the youth and senior ladies sections.

Meanwhile, sisters Amelia and Charis Hancocks were both successful at a junior grading at High Wycombe, achieving their blue belt and green belt respectively.

Charis needed her green to qualify for the forthcoming British Junior National Championships after gaining bronze at the Heart Of England Championsips.

She now has a real chance of getting onto the World Class Start Plan, also known as the British Cadet Squad.

For details about starting judo or Samurai phone 07761 122977 or visit www.samurai.org.uk