Judo: Fairbrother becomes the target: British women in medal hunt at European Championships
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.WITHOUT a world championships or Olympics this year, the European Championships, which begin here today, have attracted the strongest possible entry, putting pressure on Britain's medal hopes and especially on the world lightweight champion, Nicola Fairbrother, who is out to retain the European title she won in Athens last year, writes Philip Nicksan from Gdansk, Poland.
'International competition is never easy but I know I am the principal target in my category,' the 23- year-old sports journalist said.
In fact, after a relatively successful British Open - when she won her first three rounds then withdrew to protect a damaged knee - she feels back on course, ending a run of poor performances. 'I have been back in full training for nearly three weeks and I am confident the knee will be OK,' Fairbrother, who was voted European fighter of the year, said.
Two others from the British women's team are poised to join the long list of British European medallists. Kate Howey, the world silver medallist, having broadened her technique, could finally take her first title, having won silver and bronzes in the past.
It will also be interesting to chart the progress of the youngest team member, the 18-year-old Debbie Allan, who has stepped in to fill the featherweight position held for so many years by Sharon Rendle.
Team, Sporting Digest, page 47
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments