Camberley Judo Club Crowned Ares Judo Premiership Champions
June 30, 2025
Camberley Judo Club rose to the top this weekend as they were crowned champions of the 2025 Ares Judo Premiership Team Event – a flagship competition that brought together some of Britain’s most competitive clubs in a dramatic, team-based showdown.
The event, held at the High Wycombe Judo Centre, saw Camberley overcome Bradley Stoke 4-1 in a dominant final display to be crowned Ares Judo Champions.
Launched with the ambition of reinvigorating team competition in the UK, the Ares Judo Team Event has fast become a cornerstone of the domestic calendar. Created by the passionate team of Joe Chraniuk and Aaron Tuner, they were looking to mirror the energy of international league formats, with the event blending top-tier judo with a spectator-first experience. From music cues and team entrances to high-stakes match structures, the atmosphere in High Wycombe reflected the event’s mission to elevate the club scene.
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Eight Premier Division teams competed this weekend, following last year’s inaugural event. The format featured team line-ups across weight categories, with matches often coming down to final contests—or even tie-breaking “spin-the-wheel” bouts—creating a unique, gladiatorial intensity rarely seen in British Judo events.
Bradley Stoke and Ryecroft treated spectators to one of the weekend’s most memorable moments in the semi-finals. With the match ending in a 3-3 draw, the outcome was decided by the event’s distinctive “spin the wheel” rule, selecting a random weight category for a golden score decider. In a nerve-shredding sudden-death contest, Bradley Stoke edged out Ryecroft to book their place in the final.
Camberley, meanwhile, took on a tough and resilient Garioch team. The Scottish side brought intensity and grit to every bout, but Camberley’s depth and tactical precision saw them through to the final.
Camberley showcased their class in the gold medal match, defeating Bradley Stoke 4-1. With explosive throws, sharp groundwork, and clear team cohesion, the Surrey-based club left no doubt as to who deserved the title.
At the other end of the table, Ealing and Enfield battled to retain their places in the Premier Division, winning vital matches against Judo Club Esprit and Budokwai respectively. Both losing clubs fought valiantly but will now compete in the Championship Division in 2026, as they look to bounce back.
Co-founder Joe Chraniuk summed up the event in a heartfelt quote following the event:
“Once again, Ares delivered what we always dreamed it would — a space for incredible judo, unforgettable memories, and something that feels different. Something real. Ares isn’t just an event — it’s a movement. And that’s because of you.”
“This is an event from the people, for the people, with the judoka at the heart of everything we do,” said Chraniuk. “With the backing of the clubs, athletes, supporters, and everyone in our judo family — we know we can build something truly special.”
With the 2025 edition now complete, attention turns to next year, where the Championship division will offer fierce competition for promotion, and Camberley will look to defend their crown. One thing is certain: Ares Judo has firmly established itself as a must-watch on the British Judo calendar.
