The Samurai Olympic Judo Club is the oldest Judo Club in Wales, formed in 1957 by Mr Alan Petherbridge. Mr Petherbridge was first introduced to Judo in 1946 while posted to Berlin with the British Army, Judo was still in its infancy in the UK, barely known outside of the Budokwai, London. During the late 50’s Alan Petherbridge was Gold medalist in European Judo Championships between 1957 and 1961 winning four European Gold Medals and represented Great Britain in the Toyko Olympic Games in 1964. Alan Petherbridge (9th Dan) established the Samurai Judo Club in 1957 and led the Club until 2008 more than 50 years inspiring and directing Judo in Swansea sadly passing away in 2020 at the age of 93 years. The Samurai Judo Club, Welsh Judo and British Judo owes “Peth” a massive debt and gratitude for his hugely important contribution to Judo in UK. 

​The Samurai Judo Club has produced two Olympic Competitors, six European Championship Gold medals, four European Championship Silver medals and three European Championship Bronze medals. The Club has produced many British Squad members and dozens of Welsh Champions.