Four-Strong British Team Heads to Warsaw Veteran European Cup

A four-strong British veteran squad is set to compete at the Warsaw Veteran European Cup on Saturday, 18 April.

Craig Bowater (Samurai JC) will begin his 2026 campaign in the -66kg M7 category, as well as competing in the M7–M9 ne-waza division. Bowater last appeared on the international stage at the 2025 Veteran World Championships in Paris, and will be aiming to build on that experience as he returns to competition.

Rafal Lichodziejewski (Edinburgh Judo) enters the M4 -100kg category for his first outing of the year. He also competed at the World Championships in Paris, where he secured two wins to reach the Round of 16. With that performance behind him, he will be looking to progress even further in Warsaw.

Nigel Thompson (Norwich Premier JC) arrives as a Veteran World Championships bronze medallist, having claimed an impressive four victories on his way to the podium in Paris in 2025. Competing in the M7 -100kg division this weekend, Thompson will be a strong contender for another medal.

David McGuire (Genki JC) brings a wealth of experience at veteran level, with consistent top-seven finishes at the 2025 World and European Championships, as well as the 2024 World Championships. He also secured a medal at the 2025 European Championships and will be aiming for another standout performance in Warsaw.

Best of luck to the entire team in Poland!