James Antill from Guildford secured a bronze medal in the male 75kg division at the European Assaut Championships 2023, held 31 Aug – 02 Sep in Rudvica, Croatia.
After defeating the Spanish athlete in his opening fight, then losing a close split decision to Italy in the second, a win against Belgium in the third set up a semi final clash with Croatia. A majority decision by the judges denied him a place in the final but secured a podium finish.
His team mate Jack Davies from Brighton, fought his debut in the male 70kg division against opponents from France, Belgium, and Ukraine. He secured ring time against accomplished fighters, useful experience at international level, but no win on this outing.
Former Champion James Southwood accompanied the team as coach with Delphine Frémondeau as juge-arbitre.