Lanlivery judoka Michael Edwards’ comeback year ends in a GB call-up

A long spell away from competitive judo. A world title in a different sport altogether. And now a place in a Great Britain squad.

Judoka Michael Edwards, 30, from Lanlivery, has won a silver medal at the British Veteran Championships in Glasgow and been selected for the GBR team.

From Goonhavern gold to Glasgow silver

The Glasgow result tops a strong year for Michael. Earlier this year he took gold in the Kazuko Trophy Cup, an open judo competition recently held in Goonhavern.

That was his first competitive event as a judoka since the end of 2023.

A world title in Cornish wrestling

In the time between, Michael turned his attention to Cornish wrestling, and in 2025 he was declared world champion.

“I didn’t attend the Cornish Wrestling championships this year as I wanted to focus on getting back to judo and taking part in the British Veteran Championships,” he said.

He sees the two sports feeding into each other.

“I think the two sports complement each other really well. Judo develops my technical ability, timing and grip fighting, while Cornish wrestling challenges me to adapt, think differently and become a more versatile grappler. Both share the same fundamentals of balance, control and throwing, and I think training in one makes you better at the other.”

Training without the bill

Michael is a GLL Sport Foundation (GSF) athlete in Cornwall, which gives him free training membership at any of the hundreds of Better leisure centres around the country. Closer to home, he works out with the Polkyth Judo Club at St Austell Leisure Centre.

“Being a GSF athlete is great,” he said. “Competing is expensive so it’s nice not to have to pay for my training.

“I’m delighted with my place on the GBR veterans’ squad and look forward to keeping this momentum going and moving into some international events.”

Operating under the Better brand, GLL is a charitable social enterprise that runs nine leisure centres in Cornwall.

“Many congratulations to Michael on his outstanding results,” said Karen Edmond, GLL Community Sport Manager. “As a GSF athlete, he’s certainly doing us proud and we’re delighted to support him.”

A record year for Cornish athletes

GSF was first launched in 2008. This year, 178 Cornwall-based athletes were selected for funding, the highest number yet.

Applications for the 2027 GSF awards open on 20 December, with more details on the GLL Sport Foundation website.

📷Michael Edwards with his silver medal from the British Veteran Championships in Glasgow. Credit: Michael Edwards