The Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium has been filled with cheers and thundering ukemi since 10am Saturday and as the curtain comes down on a memorable Park24 Group Tokyo Grand Slam, we know this edition will live long in our memories.
It has been a weekend of immense skill in total alignment with the core judo values. In Japan, the whole judo community has been treated to thoughtful organisation with respect and courtesy at every turn. This is the way to create an environment which inspires, producing an electric atmosphere for all. Its unmissable!
Japan led on the medal table from the outset; not a surprise. What is interesting though is that the international delegations have brought with them a collection of the bravest and most determined challengers. Faced with the expected Japanese dominance, the rest of the world showed up, valuing the challenge, the opportunity to stretch themselves towards excellence, and isn’t the idea to improve oneself a big part of why we are all here. Jigoro Kano Shihan saw this as the route to creating a better society. Therefore within the context of this grand slam, we find our judoka to be a shining example of excellence, of judo philosophy and of mental robustness. Bravo!
The IJF year has now come to an end. There are some weeks ahead for rest, recuperation, recovery and planning before the World Judo Tour begins its 2026 season, a season which features, in June, the opening of Olympic qualification for the Los Angeles cycle.
Thank you Tokyo! See you in Paris!
AloJapan.com