Judo expert selected for Special Olympics

A 17-year-old judo competitor from Brentry has been selected to represent his country at the Special Olympics in Leicester.

David Woodland, who has autism, first discovered the sport when he was eight and, despite numerous serious injuries, lives and breathes the sport.

More than 2,700 athletes representing 19 Special Olympics regions across the UK will visit Leicester for the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games between July 25 and 31.

David, who lives with his parents Keith and Mel in Turnbridge Road, is club captain at the Kodachi Judo Club in Southville.

Since taking up the sport, he has travelled to Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Italy and Slovenia competing and increasing his skills.

Dad Keith, 54, a security guard, said: "Judo was not something we had come across before.

"David did play football but it was a hell of a job getting him into a team because they were only interested in the best players.

"Then one day I saw something at work about judo and said to Mel that perhaps David should give it a go and he has never looked back."

Mel, 47, a community health care assistant, said: "He has had quite a few bumps and bruises in judo and broke his leg when he was nine."

But undeterred by his injuries, David is now preparing to make his first trip to Europe without his parents or the support of brothers Andrew, 27, Michael, 25, and step-sister Sadie, 27.

Up until this point at least one member of the family has been with David when he has travelled abroad but the cost of travelling has taken its toll.

"The amount of travelling takes its toll," added Mr Woodland. "Unfortunately, a lot of the countries that David competes in are very expensive.

"It is very difficult to get sponsorship but we are hoping to find a kind-hearted businessman who can help us."

David said: "One day I would love to become a coach and help other people learn.

"When I go to Leicester all I can do is have a go and do my best. I just have to go and enjoy it and meet new people."