From Wheelchair to Heading for Team GB - Inspiring Chelmsford College Learner Knows No Limits!
While most people may be looking forward to a quiet Sunday, Izak Buys, a Uniformed Services learner at Chelmsford College, will be in Poland preparing to represent Team GB at a European Judo Union Tournament. Just 5 years ago Izak was in a wheelchair while undergoing treatment for severe Perthes disease, so his journey has certainly been extraordinary and far from easy.
Born without his left hand and having undergone six major hip operations, Izak’s story has required resilience and courage. Despite this, he has never allowed his circumstances to define him or limit what he can achieve. With sheer determination and a supportive network surrounding him, Izak has managed to overcome his hurdles and complete some great achievements. Having come a very long way, Izak is now proudly up to the challenge of participating in the British Adaptive Judo Squad.
Izak’s diary may be busy, but he definitely doesn’t take it for granted. He has the honour of training with the British Judo Association on a monthly basis at British Judo’s National Training Centre in Walsall, which presents him with some amazing opportunities. Just recently in Birmingham, Izak trained with two times Olympic medallist Chris Skelly, which he thoroughly enjoyed! Aside from this, Izak also trains for four to five hours each week across three different judo clubs, supported by Shayne in Basildon, Russell in Brentwood and Marcus at The Commando Temple in Deptford.
The competition however for Team GB is very fierce and requires gradual integration; Izak’s invitation to compete on the 27th September marks another important step of this process. Although Izak is not yet an official member of the British squad, his performances in Poland and at future international competitions could lead to his integration into the team. Earning the opportunity to train and compete internationally alongside British squad athletes is already an exceptional achievement. Off to a great start, Izak also fought at the British opens back in August 2026 and achieved a bronze medal and a proud place on the podium.
Acknowledging his studies at Chelmsford College, Izak notes that his time learning Uniformed Services has helped him not only academically, but personally too. From inspiring guest speakers to challenging outdoor trips and motivating lecturers, Izak believes Chelmsford College has strengthened his confidence, encouraged his independence and continually pushed him beyond his comfort zone.
With many accolades already under his belt, at just 16 Izak completed the 210km Everest Base Camp Three Passes trek. Most recently, he trekked the famous Corsica GR20 trail too, which is widely considered Europe’s toughest trek! Once again proving his perseverance, Izak completed the trek in just 13 days with The Commando Temple, despite the route having an average drop out rate of 60% and a completion time of 14-16 days. Completing these demanding challenges requires exceptional physical endurance and mental strength - qualities Izak continues to bring to judo.
Proud would be an understatement to explain how Chelmsford College feel. All staff and learners will be cheering him on ahead of the weigh in and opening ceremony on the 26th September, followed by the competition on the 27th September. Whilst Izak has already had some incredible achievements, Chelmsford College are sure this is only the beginning for him and look forward to what comes next.