JUDO

Judo is Japanese for “the gentle way and its philosophy is to integrate the body and mind.” It is derived in part from jiu jitsu, the hand-to-hand combat technique of the ancient samurai warriors. Developed by Jigano Kano in 1882, the sport debuted in the Tokyo Olympic Games of 1964. The fighting technique basically consists of using the opponent’s force to knock him down. Kicks and punches are not permitted and matches last five minutes.

The final outcome can be achieved in several ways, depending on moves or infractions. The quickest way to win is by using the ippon, in which the contestant is made to fall on his back on the tatame. If no ippon occurs by the end of the fight, the winner is the contestant with the most points. However, if the judokas end the regular time with the same score, the winner will be determined by the “golden point,” a type of “sudden death:” the first to successfully attack wins. If the tie persists, the referee and the two assistants indicate the winner, displaying flags.