A new judo club in Lambeth is offering 50 free spots as it becomes the Olympic sport’s latest London outfit.

Vauxhall Judo Club, which launched in January, is offering free sessions for 10 weeks as part of a Sports Unlimited project funded by Pro Active Central London to junior (under 16’s) new participants.   

The club will meet once a week at Old Lilian Baylis School’s Sports Action Zone and is led by 3rd Dan Mike Mounawah, a former Mauritius international judoka and member of Tooting’s Ernest Bevin Phoenix Judo Club.

Mounawah, 33, retired in 2007 after a 12-year run on the international scene as a competitor and holds impressive wins over America’s three-time Pan American Champion Ryna Reser and 11-time Norwegian National Champion Martin Thiblin.

The 2002 Commonwealth Games veteran is now bringing his top-level skills to the capital’s highly-active judo scene.

Tim Edwards, British Judo’s London Development Officer, said: “Mike has a wealth of experience and expertise and he’s very committed to Vauxhall Judo Club.”

“Vauxhall is ideal for people who are interested in pursuing a new challenge and for those who already practice the sport.”

“Judo has something to offer to everyone.  These s essions are lots of fun and can help people keep fit and healthy.  Judo training also has an emphasis on respect, self-discipline and building confidence.

To take up the offer please just turn up at the venue. Vauxhall Judo Club train at Sports Action Zone, Old Lilian Baylis School, Lollard Street, SE11. On a Friday Under 16’s (5-15) train at 17:30 – 19:00 for FREE (Free for new participants for 10 weeks only). Players 16+ train at 19:00 to 20:30 (Free throughout February, new participants only).