Hi, my name’s Chris and I’m fundraising on behalf of my son, Tobi Houten – an 18-year-old full-time judo athlete and student at the University of Bath.

This September, Tobi has the chance to attend a three-week training camp in Japan – the home of judo – alongside international athletes and Olympic-level coaches. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that could shape his future in the sport he’s dedicated his life to.

Tobi has been on the mat since he was 6 years old. Now 18, he trains full-time with Team Bath and represents Hardy Spicers 83 Judo Club, pushing himself every single day to reach the next level.

About Tobi:

• A former GB Junior Squad member (2023)

• An England squad athlete since age 11

• Multiple BJA, AJA and BJC National medalist

• Ranked top 10 nationally at under 60kg juniors, and now climbing the ranks at 66kg

• A full-time athlete balancing intense training with university life — all without external funding

This camp in Japan is not a holiday – it’s a serious, elite-level environment where Tobi will train alongside Olympic champions and experience judo at its roots.

We expect the trip to cost around £3,000 in total – covering flights, accommodation, insurance, and essential living expenses. Tobi will be working a part-time job over the summer to contribute, and as a family, we’ll support him however we can. But we’re hoping the wider community might help bridge the gap and make this incredible opportunity possible.

How You Can Help:

• Donate anything you can – even £5 truly makes a difference

• Share this page with friends, clubs, or your community

• If you’re a local business, please consider sponsoring Tobi - we’ll happily shout you out.

What We’ll Give Back:

• Regular updates on Tobi’s training and trip preparations

• Donors over £25 will receive a personal thank-you postcard from Japan

• Businesses who support the campaign will be thanked publicly in social posts and fundraising materials

This is a huge opportunity for a young man who has quietly and consistently put everything into one of the world’s toughest sports — and your support could help him experience its birthplace and take the next step in his journey.

Thank you so much for reading — and for anything you can give to help him get there.

– Chris (Dad) & Tobi