DAWN Wilkins, the judo star from Badshot Lea, claimed the national title in her class when she competed in the National Championships at Willesden Sports Centre, North London on Saturday.
Watched by parents Kevin and Lynn, the 19-year-old fought in the 63 kilos category (18-19 years) and won all three of her contests. With a fourth opponent having to withdraw, Dawn thus took the championship to cap an excellent year.
She has represented Great Britain on numerous occasions at junior level, competing this year in Russia, Belgium and France, as well as in several tournaments at home. She won the silver medal at the 'Heart of England' competition.
Dawn trains at the renowned Camberley Judo Club, alongside Commonwealth Games gold medallist Sam Lowe. As the new national champion, she takes part in trials for seniors at Wigan this weekend.
Like all committed athletes, her ambition is to compete at the Olympics and although she receives expenses, she has to work part-time to help finance her heavy training schedule at such centres as Lilleshall and Bisham Abbey.