Tribute to Geoff Moore (1959 – 2022)

With the death of Geoff Moore 6^th dan, aged 63, after a long and fearless battle with thymic cancer – North Wales, Welsh and British Judo has lost one of its most popular and respected figures.

As a competitive judo player Geoff was a regular medallist in the Clwyd, North Wales Closed, North Wales Open and Welsh Closed Championships.  He also participated in the Welsh County Team Championship several times.  Later, Geoff enjoyed considerable success as a Masters’ age-group player and was a member of the Great Britain Masters Squad – winning medals both nationally and internationally.

Beyond his excellent contest achievements, Geoff was deeply knowledgeable in judo kata – a formal system of prearranged exercises.  He was a stylish pioneer in kata competition and a multiple British Kata Champion in 4 kata.  For his many achievements in this aspect of judo, Geoff took first place in the “Kata Award” category at the 2019 British Judo Awards Dinner.

As well as holding the high grade of sixth dan, Geoff was a British Judo Level 3 Coach, Kata Examiner and Area Referee.  At the time of his death, he was under training to qualify as a British Judo Senior Examiner. He was also a former Director of the Welsh Judo Association.

Geoff was also an all-round martial artist and held senior ranks in modern jujutsu, kenjutsu (Japanese sword) and kick boxing.  He also competed in grappling and amateur mixed martial arts (MMA) as well as sports jujutsu events.

A devoted family man, Geoff Moore lived all aspects of his life “the judo way” and epitomised the Judo Moral Code through his actions – particularly the values of courage, respect, honour, modesty, and friendship.  He will be much missed.

Words by Llyr Jones