British Karate Federation International Open 2011
Over the weekend of 1st & 2nd October 2011, six Wado UK competitors entered the British International Open Karate Championships in Glasgow. Barry Meanwell from the Woodford Dojo was among the group and his endevours are outlined below.
Finishing the first day off would be Barry Meanwell. Barry entered the senior male open weight category, as well as his own weight group. Fairing better within his own weight, Barry did as Jess had done earlier and lined himself up into the medal positions by beating his quarter-final opponent. Determined to secure something better than a bronze medal, Barry set to on his semi-final opponent in much the same way as his previous match. Winning this round also meant Barry was now in line for either the silver or the gold. HIs opponent in the final was fellow England International Aaron Swales. Unfortunately for Barry Aaron was to pip him to the post on this occasion, leaving Barry to join Jess as a silver medal winner.
In his open weight division Barry suffered at the hands of Lady Luck from the outset, as he was drawn against Callum Robb from Scotland. Callum is an exceptional competitor winning many medals in the World Universities events and indeed a bronze medal in the World Championships. Callum proved an obstacle too difficult for Barry to overcome and left the open weight division at this point.
