Jostling it out on the mat
The South African Open Judo Championships came to Carnival City from Sunday, June 26, to Saturday, July 2.
Judo is the largest indoor Olympic sport and the second largest practiced sport in the world.
Judo South Africa’s premium event for the year attracted hundreds of the top judokas in the country and even as far as Namibia, Mozambique and Angola with players in various categories and from all walks of life competing.
Rob Jordaan, marketing director of Judo South Africa, told the Herald that Carnival City’s Big Top Arena was a fantastic venue as it was spectator friendly over the seven-day period.
“The floor itself was a bit crowded, but we managed to get by.”
Jordaan said the state of judo in South Africa is healthy and in extremely good hands.
He added that South Africa’s judo hopes will be pinned on one man, Zack Piontek, who will realise his lifetime dream of becoming an Olympian as Rio de Janeiro beckons.
Jordaan also reserved praise for the country’s coaches who he believes are doing a fantastic job in growing the sport particularly at a development level and among the visually impaired.
“The future looks great for us,” he said.
“We [Judo SA] have a total of 5 000 registered members and our local coaches are doing a marvellous job.”
Asked what the benefits of this form of modern martial arts are, Jordaan said: “Judo is a life skill, if you get into an altercation you can handle yourself by using your opponent’s own energy to throw him off.”
Asked for advice on how an individual can get involved with the sport he replied: “We do have coaches who are involved at school level for those who want to start at a young age otherwise you can join a local club in your area.
“Judo South Africa’s website has a whole list of local clubs where you can hone your skills.”
