SAM Dobrowolski just missed out on a World title when she lost in a golden score decider in the final of the World Veteran Judo Championships.

The Micklefield Judo Club instructor went to Malaga for the championships and after receiving a bye in the first round overpowered the 2013 world silver medalist from Germany in the quarter-finals.

Another victory followed in the last four, when she dominated her French opponent on the ground to force a submission.

This set up a final against defending champion Charlotte Wilkinson, and neither player could be separated during the three-minute fight, meaning the title would be decided by a golden score.

Again neither player gave an inch though, with three further minutes of fighting failing to decide it.

Dobrowolski was finally beaten when she gave away a single penalty, and admits silver is hard to take.

She said: “To be honest, I'm really struggling with it at the moment but hopefully in time I will be pleased with coming second. I know it is a big achievement but my sights were firmly set on winning it.

“The final fight was tough but I did all the attacking and on the day I thought I fought well enough to be the best in the world.

“It just wasn't to be but hopefully my time will come.”

Dobrowolski added: “This wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support I have had from my partner Matt, my two sons Joe and Jesse, everyone at Micklefield Judo Club and my boss at Marlow Air Conditioning.

“My training partner Paul Pusey, who takes weekly batterings from me, should also probably get a mention.

“It was the first time I had travelled abroad to compete with my family and some close friends and their support was amazing throughout.

“I couldn't have achieved this without them.”