THE BEST of the nation's judo competitors were out in action at the weekend competing in the National Judo Championships. The Fred Caterson Reserve in Castle Hill played host to the huge event with more than 400 competitors, 85 from NSW with some hailing from The Hills.

The president of Judo NSW, Robert Ivers,

of Winston Hills, was pleased to see the

championships come to The Hills.

``It's very exciting to have it here,'' he said. ``It is very tough competition and it really is a great event,'' the former 2000 Olympian said.

The championships were held over three days and concluded yesterday afternoon.

Hills competitors included Nick Zellner of Beaumont Hills who won a bronze medal in the young men's division (under 73 kilograms) and brother Ben who finished in fifth place in the men's division (under 81 kilograms). Also, Nathan Katz of Northmead enjoyed a bronze-medal win in the under-16s boys division (under 46 kilograms).