Howey leads British hopes
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Kate Howey'S appetite for competition is undimmed. Since winning Olympic silver in Sydney, she has lessened her rigorous training routine in order to meet the demands of appearances and demonstrations. Yet today she leads the British women's team in the European team championships taking place here with a medal on the cards.
Kate Howey'S appetite for competition is undimmed. Since winning Olympic silver in Sydney, she has lessened her rigorous training routine in order to meet the demands of appearances and demonstrations. Yet today she leads the British women's team in the European team championships taking place here with a medal on the cards.
"I always enjoy team competitions - the spotlight isn't on me alone," explained Howey, who is generally seen as a medal certainty in individual internationals.
She did not take a break after Sydney. "I have had appearances to make and presented medals at the British Junior championships, but I have also my sports studies at Bath University," she said.
Nevertheless, perfect performances from her will be necessary for the Briton to reach the final. The European heavyweight champion, Karina Bryant, is resting, and other first choices Victoria Dunn (bantamweight), Georgina Singleton (featherweight), Cheryle Peel (lightweight) and Chloe Cowen (light-heavyweight) are all injured. Despite this, a bronze, at least, can be expected.
The men's team will have a harder time matching the silver medal it won last year. It is also fielding a team with key absences, including the world champion, Graeme Randall, who has just become a father. But it will be the first time that the team manager, Udo Quellmalz, doubles as coach, after the post-Olympic resignation of Mark Earle.
* The British Judo Association has announced that the featherweight Debbie Allan is banned from international competition for six months after her failure to make the weight at the Sydney Olympics. She will not be available for the European championships in May, and is a doubt for the World championships next October.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments