Ten local judo athletes returned home from Edmonton this week with eight medals in tow.

A small Yukon team went up against more than 700 competitors at the Edmonton International Judo Championships March 11 to 16.

Each of the territory’s four U12 athletes – Anya Bellon (-33 kg), Cassandra Jensen (-40 kg), Wyatt Burnett (-30 kg) and Scottie James-Shephard (-55 kg) – earned gold medals.

“It was a great experience to watch all our young judokas compete at such a large event,” said Judo Yukon’s Dan King, who managed the local team.

“They all displayed so much character, respect and grit in winning or losing their matches.

“Judo Yukon is so proud of each and every one of the athletes for the hard work and preparation that they put into this tournament,” King added.

“Most of the kids are training at their respective clubs twice a week, and elite training on Saturday mornings with head coach Bianca Ockedahl.”

Paige Poelman (-48 kg) took home a bronze in the U14 female competition, while Kenny Hyatt (-46 kg) finished sixth out of 14 competitors in the male U14 division.

Three out of four U16 athletes also medalled, with Hannah King (-63 kg) and Darrien James-Tizya (+73 kg) earning silvers and Shayne Melanson (-73 kg) taking bronze. Brandon Butler (-73 kg) was fourth.

The event took place at the West Edmonton Mall.

The Judo Yukon Championships will be held May 2 at the Canada Games Centre.