Mat attack

Melissa Nelson has stopped being so nice.

In judo, that's a good thing.

Nelson, a 15-year-old from the Hart Judo Academy, battled to a gold medal at the Prince George Open, which took place Saturday at the Civic Centre. In the novice junior women's category, she fought to a pair of victories against Kamloops product Cloe Sandal, who was the only other athlete in the division.

By nature, Nelson has a mild and friendly disposition. Bruce Kamstra, her instructor at the HJA, has been encouraging her to get a little meaner on the mat. Nelson has complied with her coach's wishes this season and gave spirited performances on Saturday.

"She has made a bit of a leap," Kamstra said. "She used to be pretty timid -- always hardworking -- but this year she's starting to be a little more aggressive. That's a little bit of a problem with our kids. They're all so nice, and then in judo, it's kind of a combative sport. She's realizing it's part of the game to grab and throw them down. She did great."

Both of Nelson's wins against Sandal were via throws.

Nelson, a Grade 10 student at Kelly Road secondary, is in her third year of judo. With her more aggressive style, she's enjoying her best season to date.

"When I first started, I didn't really want to hurt anyone," she said. "But there are medics here and if your partner does what they're supposed to, then they shouldn't get hurt."

This summer, Nelson will be on Team B.C. for the national championships. Nationals, set for July in Toronto, will be a first-time experience for her.

"I'm really excited," she said. "I hope I do well."

At the P.G. Open, two other local clubs -- the Prince George Judo Club and the North Capital Judo Club -- were represented. Athletes from 100 Mile House, Williams Lake, Smithers and Grande Prairie also attended the meet.

Other division winners from Prince George were: Lexie LaRose (HJA); Alexandra Schenk (HJA); Kyra Edgson (PGJC); Iaon Frizzell (HJA); Matthias Schenk (HJA); Jamie Allan (HJA); Joden Gallant (HJA); Wyatt Cameron (PGJC); Colby Hawkenson (PGJC); Tami Goto (PGJC); Brynne Deevy (PGJC); Bryce Hayashi (PGJC); Zackary Edwards, (PGJC); Branden Edwards (PGJC); Levi Price (PGJC); Taylor Rowland (HJA); Byron Laass (HJA); Kyle Wilkinson (PGJC); Nathanial Hirvi (HJA); Brandon Slooyer (NCJC); Quinn Clemas (PGJC); Kevin Gunning (PGJC); and Jon Cruz (NCJC).