The boy did good (December 2001)

Last month we highlighted one of South Edinburgh's sporting talents in the shape of young Ryan Kinnear, who has been excelling in the judo world. Since our last report Ryan traveled to Crystal Palace to take his place in the Scotland squad for the British Junior Championships.

This competition brought together the cream of the junior judo fraternity and once again saw Ryan plowing through the ranks. Unfortunately, Ryan didn't manage to get himself a medal this time and had to settle for 5th out of 36. This is no mean feat by any accounts, but it is unfortunate to learn that he missed out on bronze by four seconds.

Having forged himself a seven point lead in his final bout, Ryan managed to wind himself in the dying seconds and tapped - the judo equivalent of throwing in the towel. After regaining his breath, he was told that he had only had been four seconds away from another medal but was philosophical about the outcome. Ryan's father, Brian Kinnear said; 'You know what it's like when you're winded? You panic and Ryan did what he felt was right. He's not too bothered by the result and it was a great experience for him anyway.'

Ryan should be in action over December for the Scottish Schools Championships at Meadowbank, so watch this space for further developments in this already exciting career.

Hit Counter