RICH CADDEN grabbed Brazilian ju-jitsu gold and silver in the burgeoning sport’s Manchester Open.

The Chokdee Academy chief won gold in the lightweight white belt category – his second championship success since taking up the martial art last year.

As a gold medallist, Cadden then went forward to compete in the Absolute open weight competition, where he won silver.

Chris Eaglen, also representing Poppleton-based Chokdee, won bronze in the lightweight white belt section.

Fellow York competitor Lewis Matthews battled his way to a bronze medal in the lightweight purple belt category.

Former world Thai boxing champion Cadden won his opening bout against Wales’ Gareth Gee by choke after two-and-a-half minutes, before out-pointing Redcar’s Barry Welsh in the final.

In the first stage of the Absolute competition, Cadden beat an ultra-heavyweight foe by choke, but lost in the final.

Eaglen beat Ashley James, of North Wales, but was then edged out by Derek Henderson.

Cadden was delighted with the results, saying: “This was one of the big competitions for Brazilian ju-jitsu in the UK.

“I’ve been doing it for about 18 months now and it’s very different to Thai boxing but it presents a new challenge.

“I am finding you use your body and mind differently. It’s like starting again. It’s great being a beginner.

“The advantage I have got is my pre-fight experience from Thai boxing.”

He added: “Chris has been at it for seven months. He comes from a kickboxing background, but he’s not really competed before.”

Further information about Brazilian ju-jitsu in York is available by phoning Cadden on 07887 812139.