Rakukan Judo Club (Wigan)

Due to holidays there will be no Seniors sessions on the 28th and 30th July and the 11th and 13th August. Over the summer holidays the Seniors sessions will run 7pm to 8:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Another great seniors session last night at Rakukan Judo Club!

Rob, Miles and James receiving their medals at the Yorkshire and Humberside Open. 2 golds and a silver, a great result for the guys and Rakukan!

In Memory of Sensei G R Mealing

23 April 1928 – 29 May 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sensei Mealing, who died on 29 May 2026 at the age of 98.

Only recently, we proudly celebrated an extraordinary milestone in Mr Mealing’s remarkable journey — his promotion to 9th Dan within the British Judo Council, the highest grade ever awarded. This was not merely a rank, but a fitting recognition of a lifetime dedicated to the art, spirit, and discipline of judo.

Mr Mealing was a towering figure within the British Judo Council and a true inspiration to generations of judoka. An influential leader, teacher, and mentor, his guidance helped shape countless journeys both on and off the mat. His humility, honesty, and unwavering commitment to the values of judo defined not only his own legacy but also the very heart of the BJC.

Born on St George's Day, 23 April 1928, George Richard Mealing was known to family and friends simply as Jim. He devoted so much of his life to the British Judo Council, an organisation he truly loved and served with distinction. Through decades of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment, he helped shape the very foundations of the BJC. Without his influence and guidance, we would not be the organisation we are today, and for this we are truly grateful.

Those who knew Jim beyond the judogi will remember a kind, compassionate, and thoughtful man, always willing to offer advice, encouragement, and support. His honesty and personal integrity were qualities that earned him the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Few people embodied so completely the ideals of service, humility, and dedication.

Even as his physical abilities diminished in later years, his spirit, wisdom, and love for judo never wavered. His commitment to the BJC remained steadfast, and his influence continued to inspire those fortunate enough to know him.

Sensei Mealing leaves behind a legacy that will endure through the countless students, instructors, officials, and friends whose lives he touched. His example reminds us of the true meaning of leadership, service, and dedication to something greater than oneself.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life exceptionally well lived — a life devoted to family, friendship, service, and the advancement of BJC judo throughout the United Kingdom.

Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends, and all members of the British Judo Council who share in this loss.

A legend of the BJC. A role model to all. A legacy that will endure.

Rest in peace, Sensei Mealing

First aid training at Rakukan Judo Club! A crucial skill for James, Danny and Phil after being on the receiving end of their throws and strangles.....

Some photo's of Rakukan's seniors competing at the Richard Lloyd Memorial Judo competition yesterday. We managed to bring home gold in the over 100kg category and silver in the under 81kg category. A good day all round with some tough fights and loads of hard work!

Congratulations to Danny Calderbank on achieving his 1st KYU brown belt. He works hard, helps the other members and has amazing judo foundation from his days with Andonkerdan Clayton as a young member of the club. Next stop Dan grade, which is well over due 👍👊👌