The local Tatami Judo club based in Bryanston and representing the Joburg Judo Province won a total of 33 medals during annual SA Open Judo Championships.
The championships are the country’s flagship judo sporting event and this year’s edition was held in Port Elizabeth from 2 to 7 July. In addition to the elite South African athletes, the event also attracted athletes from Angola, Botswana, Congo, Mozambique, Namibia, USA and Zimbabwe with a total of 1 100 competitors competing for top honours.
Besides the coveted medals, the event also contributes significantly to the ranking points required for athletes to be selected for national teams. This year, the Tatami Judo Club was awarded 23 gold medals, eight silver medals and two bronze, which is a record for the club.
Team members included Judoka from Beaulieu Preparatory, Bryanston Primary, Kyalami Preparatory, Fourways High, Bryanston High, St David’s, Cooper College, Kings, Hilton College, Bryanston Parallel, Curro and Bryneven Primary.
“The Tatami Judo athletes shone this year with some fantastic performances and achievements on the national stage. The techniques practised and perfected over years of dedication and training were on display, which is obviously very rewarding for me as their sensei.
“Performing so well under pressure is also a testament to fitness, discipline and fortitude, which is what the sport is all about,” said Basil Smith, the founder of the Tatami Judo Club.
Smith added that the sport is ideal for boys and girls of all ages. It enhances the body’s core stability and strength and footwork and coordination are also emphasised, which help in other sporting activities.
“In addition to physical fitness, Judo boosts self-confidence, develops discipline, manners, punctuality, strength, stamina, perseverance, tenacity, toughness and character, all great preparation for life’s many challenges.”
Training takes place on Monday and Wednesday evenings at Bryanston Primary School. For further information email tatamijudo1@gmail.com.
Share your thoughts on Tatami Judo Club’s results on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page
Related Articles:
