After he captured the gold medal in the under 16, under 66 kilogram category at the Judo State Championships, Harry Chalker may be well on the way to becoming another Hunter Olympian as soon as 2012.

The Cooks Hill resident’s performance at the state championships is even more noteworthy considering he only took up judo two years ago.

Despite only being new to the sport, Chalker said he felt confident going into the championships.

“You can have your good days and your bad days, so you never really know but I thought I was a good chance.”

The Samurai Judo Academy student will turn his attention to the national championships, which will be held in June.

Buoyed by his strong performance at the championships, Chalker said he hoped to win a medal.

“I have been working really hard and I think I can be a chance for the gold medal.”

Sensei Ken McKenzie said Chalker was a realistic chance of medal.

“He has placed in the top two or three at all the lead-up events and there is no reason with hard work why he can’t get a medal.”

McKenzie said that Chalker’s attitude to the sport meant he had the potential to go even further.

“He could be a real chance for the 2012 Olympics if he keeps doing what he has been.”

Chalker was not the only member of the Samurai Judo Academy to perform strongly at the state championships.

Jeremy Haworth, Monica Lawman, Liam Bruckdorfer and Ken McKenzie all took home silver medals.

For more information about Samurai Judo Academy phone 4951 2530.