Bhutanese judokas bagged two gold, two silver, and four bronze medals at the second Bhutan Jita-Kyoei International Judo Tournament held in the capital, yesterday. The Bhutan Judo Association organised the international-level judo event. Held to promote judo and increase the sports’ visibility in the country, the event saw the participation of judokas from India, Nepal, and Bangladesh alongside Bhutanese judokas.
The tournament was conducted following a four-day judo training camp, which was conducted by Japanese judo coaches, referees, and athletes.
The tournament was organised in four different weight categories for both male and female judokas aged between 15 and 19.
According to participants, the tournament strengthened bonds among the judokas from different countries while enabling them to showcase their talents.
“They are using different techniques that we do not use. Therefore, it is difficult to compete with them. I am happy to receive the silver medal,” said Tenzin Dorji, a judoka.
“Today, I stood first in the tournament and this is a special feeling. This is the first time in my life that I won an international competition,” said Yeshay Nidup, another judoka.
“I was quite nervous because I have never competed in an international tournament. I got to compete with other countries’ participants. I am proud and this is a moment that I will never forget. I would like to continue my training so that I can compete in more international competitions,’’ said Lachimi Rai, a participant.
Following the individual matches, four mixed-team events were held.
Judokas for the mixed team event were randomly selected from all participating countries, and captained by a university-level Judoka from Japan.
“By organising this tournament, we are trying to build friendships in the South Asian countries. That will be the contribution from the Bhutan Judo Association to the South Asian countries. Judo can teach the philosophy of mutual prosperity,” said Rie K. Dorji, a special advisor at the Bhutan Judo Association.
Male judokas competed in the 55, 60, 66, and 73-kilogramme weight categories, while female judokas competed in the 44, 48, 52, and 57-kilogramme weight categories.
After the erstwhile Pelkhil Judo Club was upgraded to the Bhutan Judo Association in 2015, Bhutanese judokas represented the country at several international tournaments and brought back silverware.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Sherub Dorji
