Loretta Doyle Awarded Historic 9th Dan

Loretta Doyle returned to the same city that she enjoyed unprecedented success from across her career as she was awarded her historic 9th Dan, courtesy of International Judo Federation Chairman Marius Vizer.

She conquered the world stage in Paris back in 1982, securing her World Championship title. A decade later, in 1992, she stood victorious yet again, claiming her final European title and earning her seventh European medal.

This time round, it offered the opportunity to celebrate the career of a woman who has dedicated her life to the sport of judo.

“I feel absolutely amazing, completely starstruck. It is surreal to be here, surrounded by so many incredible people. I can’t believe that everyone is just as emotional as I am, sharing this unforgettable moment together. The joy in the room is overwhelming and it’s something I will never forget.”

“Something that I am truly passionate about is my grade. It always has been, ever since I first started judo. I wanted that first red belt, yellow belt, orange belt, green belt…you name it. They were always really important to me because they gave me a sense of self-worth. That’s what it was. It’s like when you take exams at school. I was never really one of the top students, so I wasn’t getting A+ grades. But in judo, I was earning my grades, and for me, that built confidence as a youngster. It gave me a sense of achievement, knowing that I was accomplishing something. That helped me as I was growing up.

“I think that’s what judo has always done for me in my life. I have always had self-doubt but judo has created something in me that makes me feel worthy, valued and appreciated. For me, this is another milestone event in my life. I am getting older, I am not getting any younger but with age comes maturity. We start thinking about things differently, just like red wine. Red wine only gets better as it ages.”

“Grades in judo also symbolise knowledge, experience and dedication. It’s about depth, what you put into a sport is eventually given back to you if you truly commit to it and keep going. Those values and the pathway of learning are always present. I have always been a firm believer that every day is a school day and in judo, you are always learning.”

Following a phenomenal career on the mat that included over 50 international medals, Loretta’s influence in the sport showed no signs of stopping. She has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of elite athletes such as Karina Bryant, Amanda Costello, Sarah Adlington and Sally Conway, guiding them to achieve greatness on the international stage. Her dedication to developing young judoka was evident through her years of service as GB female cadet and junior team manager and coach, as well as British Olympic futures team manager for cadets. Her leadership continued through her roles as programme manager for the British Judo Association’s World Class Performance Programme and as Head of Delegation for British teams competing internationally.

Congratulations to Loretta – an achievement that marks your inspiring impact on our sport.

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