It takes even more than hard work, dedication and exceptional talent when you are taking your game to the world’s biggest stage.
Ian Ryder is on such a path as one of the top athletes to come out of the Steveston Judo Club in recent memory.
The 17-year-old is coming off another dominating performance at the national championships in Montreal where he won his own age group in the -90 kg weight class for the fourth consecutive year. He also stepped up to capture silver at U21.
It’s at this the age level where Ryder was selected to represent his country back in March at European Cup competitions. He more than held his own against older opponents, finishing ninth and seventh in Portugal and Bosnia respectively.
On the weekend, he was named U18 Male Athlete of the Year at Judo B.C.’s annual award banquet. That honour comes on the heels of also being recognized as the top Youth Male Athlete of the Year at the 20th annual Richmond Sports Awards back in April.
Ryder’s season is far from done.
At the end of the month he is headed to Montreal for the Canada Cup where he will be competing exclusively against U21 and senior opponents. Then it’s off to Argentina for the Pan American Championships where he is the only Canadian athlete to qualify in both the U18 and U21 divisions. He won bronze at this event a year ago and now has his sights on gold.
Ryder is deeply grateful for the continued financial support he has received from his own club and Judo B.C. to cover some of his immense travel and training costs. However, it still takes far more as he continues to establish himself by competing in world class international events in order to be eligible for further funding from Judo Canada.
This summer’s travel itinerary is estimated at just under $5,000 — $1,750 for flight, accommodation, meals and transportation in Montreal and the rest for same expenses in Argentina, plus medical insurance.
A Go Fund Page was launched this week to assist with the costs —www.gofundme.com/ian-ryder-judo-panams-2018.
His grandfather’s musical talent will also be assisting the cause.
On Saturday, June 23 Gene Macdonald is holding a piano recital of his original melodies at the Richmond Presbyterian Church (7111 No. 2 Road). Macdonald has been composing his own music for the past number of years and now has the perfect opportunity to present his work in what’s expected to be an hour long recital followed by refreshments.
Admission is free by donation with all proceeds going to Ryder’s travel costs. To RSVP for the recital send an email to [email protected].
