Team GB Medallist Karina Bryant took time out to visit two local schools on May 10th to teach pupils more about the sport of judo and the life of an elite athlete. As part of the Leicester-Shire and Rutland Sport Olympic and Paralympic Roadshow Karina visited pupils from Barlestone Church of England Primary School and Bosworth Academy. Both schools identified pupils to attend an inspirational assembly providing pupils with the chance to ask questions and see close up a London 2012 medal. Karina spoke honestly about her experiences at London 2012 and the ups and downs of a career that has spanned 16 years. A career that has included medals at the all the major championships but also disappointments at previous Olympics.

Karina also spent time on the mat delivering judo masterclasses to pupils who attend the judo clubs that operate at both schools; including Matt Bratton who has just been selected for the GB squad. Pictured from left to right are Bosworth Academy students Sam Marston, Catherine Goodge, Joe Kilby, Jamie Blower , Matt Bratton.

Karina also took time during her visit to Bosworth Academy to meet with students that had produced artwork that appeared in the Athlete’s apartments at London 2012. This opportunity was the results of the Academy’s involvement in the Get Set 2012 education programme when students were given the opportunity to work with artist Tine Bech to produce Olympic related images using light technology. Only recently has the Academy been given permission from the British Olympic Authority to reproduce the images for display around school and just like they did in the Athlete’s apartments the images capture the attention of all those that see them. Pictured from left to right are Bosworth Academy students Catherine Goodge, Victoria Straughn, Sophie Clarke, Fay Tomlinson, Kira Pattinson, Lucy Neale, Hannah Lowe, Robyn Elms and Thea Ward-Worley who were involved in the project.