Torra Takes Fifth in NY

    Manhattan, NY - The same weekend the Jason Morris Judo Club (JMJC) women were competing in Finland the JMJC Men were at the 22nd annual NY Open at the New York Athletic Club in Manhattan March 6. Nate Torra (21) led the way going 4-2 on the day and placing fifth in the 66kg division. Torra placed seventh last year and won a bronze medal in 2003. This result keeps Torra in the race for the all important #1 seed at the US Sr. Nationals. Torra is currently tied for that spot with former JMJC teammate, Justin Flores. The #1 player takes a major advantage into the Nationals having only to win to qualify for the world team. If Torra is #2 seed or lower he will have to win the nationals then win a 2 out of 3 fight off with, Flores. The youngest entrant in this event, Jeremy Liggett (15) enjoyed a sparkling 60kg debut in NY by impressively winning his first match then hanging tough with 2004 Olympian, Taraje Williams-Murray (USA) before losing. Liggett than lost to veteran Vitali Vanyan (USA) but not before rocking the much older and stronger Vanyan a few times. The next youngest JMJC participant, AJ Silverman (17) also fought extremely well in his two 66kg matches. Although they were losses, Silverman displayed much improvement and looked as though he is on the verge of breaking through as his body matures to be able to handle the strength of the men. Dave Chapman (18) lost both his 90kg matches, but is in the same boat as Silverman making the transition in the senior ranks. Chapman fought very well in his second NY Open. Yuko Sin (17) went 0-1 in the very tough 81kg, which was won by Olympic bronze medalist, Flavio Canto (Brazil). Sin didn't fare as well as he would have liked in his first NY Open but gained some valuable experience which is the main goal for the youngsters.

Jason Morris Judo Club