I normally like to keep the news up to date but in this case I must apologise for being a bit late, about 4000 years!

During March 2008 the Second British Egyptology Congress was held at Liverpool University. Club members Bruce and Carolyn Routledge as well as being keen Judoka are also renowned Egyptologists and they managed to combine these two interests by presenting a paper to the congress based on drawings found in tombs at Beni Hasan .

These drawings are about 4000 years old and depict, very clearly, a number of wrestling techniques. Although the wrestlers are naked apart from belts there seemed to be striking similarities between these images and certain Judo throws. Working with members of Wirral Judo Club they were able demonstrate the actual techniques depicted in the tombs. It took a few experiments to work out how to grip without jackets but it was found that by locking arms and using the belt it was possible to throw much like Judo.

All this work then culminated in a practical demonstration in the World Museum, Liverpool to delegates from the Congress and members of the public. It was a great success and everyone was delighted to see history brought to life and to see how dynamic this ancient sport must have been. Thanks to Chris, Anne, Jack, Pete, Alex and Isobel.

Personally I would like to see some Roman history demonstrated at Chester Zoo this year, Lions v. Christians.

Christians chosen from those misbehaving during training sessions...