Judo enthusiasts from around New Zealand will converge on Tauranga this weekend for a national tournament which will also showcase this increasing popular martial art.
About 70 teenagers are expected to compete in the National Secondary Schools Judo Championships this Sunday at the Aquinas Action Centre, followed by a North Island
Grade Tournament in the afternoon.
Waikato Bay of Plenty Judo president Graeme Fair said Judo had experienced a big leap in popularity in Tauranga over the past few years.
He attributed the rise to people's desire to learn self-defence skills and the presence of half a dozen black belt holders at Tauranga's club based at Morland Fox Park.
"In days gone by we only had one black belt but now there are lots of people for the younger ones to learn from so it's a strong club from the top down."
Judo is an Olympic and Commonwealth Games sport which originated in Japan.
During this Sunday's secondary school competition, opponents will square off against one another according to gender and weight.
Their aim is to throw their opponent to the ground from a standing position or, when on the ground, pin them down for 25 seconds.
"The referee will award points as the fight goes on. To win with a good throw is like to achieve a knockout in boxing. And holding a person down is very difficult because they are just as determined to get away from you," Mr Fair said.
"It's all about skill. Strength plays a part of course, but skill usually overcomes strength."
New Zealand representatives Monique Dekkers and Channel Cavanagh, both from Mount College, would be competing, alongside four players from Tauranga Boys College and two from Aquinas College. Another six locals will take part in the subsequent grade tournament.
Mr Fair said members of the public who would like to learn about Judo were welcome to come and watch.
The sport was ideal for people who wanted to improve their fitness, balance, coordination, flexibility, speed, agility and confidence.
WHERE AND WHEN
What: National Secondary Schools Judo Championships
Where: Aquinas Action Centre, Pyes Pa
When: Sunday, July 17
Time: From 10am
Cost: Free admission
