Randi Morris, a sophomore from Burnt Hills, earned a silver medal in the 70‑kilogram under‑18 division at the Junior US Open on July 26, 2026. The competition took place at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, drawing young judoka from across the nation.
The Junior US Open serves as a key national tournament for athletes under 18, offering a platform for emerging talent to compete against peers from different states. The event featured multiple weight classes, with the 70‑kg category drawing a deep field of competitors. Morris advanced through the early rounds, demonstrating technical proficiency and resilience before reaching the final match.
In the championship bout, Morris was edged out by her opponent, resulting in a second‑place finish. The silver medal reflects a strong performance throughout the tournament, as she accumulated victories against several high‑ranked judoka before the final. Her showing added to the overall success of the Burnt Hills delegation, which saw several athletes place in various divisions.
Morris’s achievement marks a notable milestone for her high school’s judo program, highlighting the dedication of both the athlete and her coaching staff. The silver medal at a national level underscores the growing competitiveness of the Burnt Hills team and provides momentum heading into the upcoming high school season.
Looking ahead, Morris is expected to continue training for future national events and may aim to qualify for senior‑level competitions. Her performance at the Junior US Open positions her as one of the leading young judoka in the 70‑kg category and sets a benchmark for her peers in Burnt Hills and beyond.