Our Story
Three decades of dedication, tradition, and excellence in judo education
A Family Legacy
Joe Burns began his Judo journey in 1977 while at school. In 1979, he transitioned from a junior to senior grade at Shadsworth Judo Club. By October 1980, he had earned his brown belt, and in May 1981, he received his British Judo Club Coach Award. After starting a family, work commitments meant less time on the mats, but in 1995 Joe introduced Jaybe, Traci, and Nathon to Judo, marking the beginning of his consistent presence on the mats. Later, Joshua and Harrison joined too — all four boys are now black belts and have assisted Joe teaching over the years.
In 1998, Joe co-founded Beach JudoKwai with his friend Dave Harrison at Westbury Gardens. Joe has achieved an impressive grading record: 1st Dan (August 1996), 2nd Dan (March 1998), 3rd Dan (May 1998), 4th Dan (May 2001), 5th Dan (June 2004), and 6th Dan (2016), with his 7th Dan anticipated around 2026/27. He is a Level 3 senior coach and a British Judo Association National senior examiner.
Joe's passion for Judo has enabled him to cultivate numerous national champions, and several of his students have been part of the national squad for over 26 years, competing in some of the most prestigious senior tournaments worldwide. With Head Coach Nathon Burns — a 4th Dan black belt and Head Coach of the Ireland National Judo Team — bringing international expertise, Club 62 Judo has become synonymous with excellence. As of May 2026, the club is relocating to a new facility featuring a permanent mat area.
Our Journey
Milestones that shaped our academy
Joe's Judo Journey Begins
Joe Burns begins his Judo journey while at school, developing a lifelong passion for the sport.
Coaching Qualification
Joe receives his British Judo Club Coach Award in May 1981, after earning his brown belt in October 1980.
A Family on the Mats
Joe introduces Jaybe, Traci, and Nathon to Judo, marking the beginning of his consistent presence on the mats. Later, Joshua and Harrison also join.
Beach JudoKwai Founded
Joe co-founds Beach JudoKwai with his friend Dave Harrison at Westbury Gardens. Joe earns his 1st Dan (1996), 2nd Dan (March 1998), and 3rd Dan (May 1998).
5th Dan Achievement
Joe achieves his 5th Dan in June 2004, having earned his 4th Dan in May 2001. The club continues to produce national champions.
International Recognition
Nathon Burns appointed as Head Coach of Ireland National Judo Team, bringing international expertise to our academy.
6th Dan & Continued Excellence
Joe achieves his 6th Dan. His students have been part of the national squad for over 26 years and competed in prestigious senior tournaments worldwide.
New Home, New Chapter
The club relocates to a brand-new facility with a permanent mat area. Joe anticipates his 7th Dan around 2026/27. All four of his sons are now black belts assisting at the club.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Respect
Respect for oneself, others, and the art of judo forms the foundation of all our interactions and teachings.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in everything we do, continuously improving and pushing boundaries while maintaining the highest standards.
Community
Building strong communities through inclusive training, mutual support, and shared commitment to personal growth.
Our Journey in Pictures
Capturing moments from over three decades of judo excellence
Become Part of Our Story
Join a community that has been building champions for over three decades. Your journey starts here.