Julie Catchpole, a 60-year-old jiu-jitsu practitioner from Essex, recently made recently returned home with a silver medal from the Masters World Championship in Las Vegas.  

Having only taken up the sport three years ago, Julie’s achievement is nothing short of remarkable, especially given her age and late start in the sport.

Julie was inspired to try jiu-jitsu by her daughter, Lacey Catchpole, who also practices the sport.

"I was 57, feeling a bit uncomfortable in myself physically, and my daughter suggested I give it a go," she recalls. "I got absolutely obsessed with it. Jiu-jitsu is a contact sport, but it’s not too rough. It’s something you can do at any age."

Training hard to prepare for the competition, Julie spent up to four hours a day practicing jiu-jitsu and strength conditioning at the Jiu-Jitsu Sanctuary in Chelmsford.

She credits her success to the support of her coach, Jez Lord, a second-degree black belt, and her personal trainer, John Dawe.

"Without Jez and John pushing me, I wouldn’t have made it this far. John helped me with the weight training, and Jez prepared me for the technical side of jiu-jitsu," she explains.

Julie’s journey to the world stage hasn’t been without its challenges. Competing at her age means there are fewer women in her category.

"There aren't many women in their 60s doing jiu-jitsu, especially in the UK or Europe. That’s why I had to go to bigger competitions like this one in Vegas," she says.

Her hard work paid off when she fought opponents from Brazil and the U.S., eventually securing second place. "I was aiming for gold, but I’m proud of what I achieved. I met so many people in Vegas, including athletes I’ve followed online for years."

Julie’s family, including her five children and nine grandchildren, have been her biggest supporters. "I’ve got a big family, and they’re all so proud of me. My daughter Lacey even came with me to Vegas to watch me compete."

Julie is also committed to encouraging others, especially older adults, to stay active.

At the Jiu-Jitsu Sanctuary, she helps run an over-50s class aimed at getting people her age involved in the sport. "You’re never too old to start something new," she says. "I’m 60, but I plan on fighting well into my 80s—I'll keep going as long as my body allows it."

Looking ahead, Julie is already training for the European Championships in Portugal in January and has her sights set on returning to the World Championships next year to claim the gold.

"I’m not settling for silver. I want that gold next time," she says confidently.

Julie’s journey is proof that it’s never too late to take on new challenges and pursue your passions.

She is an inspiration to both her community and her family.

"My message to everyone, especially older people, is simple: don’t let age stop you from trying something new."