World Judo Day in Malta

For the sixth year in a row, the International Judo Federation staged the World Judo Day on 28 October, which happens to be the birthday of Master Jigoro Kano - the father of Judo.

This day is dedicated to the coaches, the athletes, their families, the fans, and all those having judo at heart, which is one of the most widely practiced sport in the world! It is also an opportunity for judo lovers to share experiences and promote the sport.

Kano Shihan (master) had said, “Judo in reality is not a mere sport or game. I regard it as a principle of life, art and science. In fact, it is a means for personal cultural attainment.”

Previous themes for the World Judo Day were Respect (2011), Judo for All (2012), Perseverance (2013), Honour (2014), Unity (2015), and this year’s theme was Judo for the World.

In Malta, the clubs organised two events, where the Judoka brought a friend or relative to training, and opened their doors to whoever wanted to have a taste of judo. Adults, children, judo experts, beginners, Maltese and visitors to our island, all shared the tatami, enjoyed Judo together and celebrated Kano’s birthday. As Kano Shihan had said, “Judo teaches us to look for the best possible course of action, whatever the individual circumstances, and helps us to understand that worry is a waste of energy.”

This event has served as promotion of Judo and its clubs. The Malta Judo Federation is constantly active in activities on and off the mat. The World Kata Championships have recently been organised successfully.