Yamaguchi City Judo Tournament: Local Athletes Shine at Kanematsu Mi Cup

The annual Yamaguchi City Sports Boys Judo Tournament, known as the Kanematsu Mi Cup, took place on February 22, 2025, at the Ishin Taiko Arena Budokan in Meiji Restoration Centenary Park. The tournament showcased the skills of young judokas across various age and weight categories, with notable performances from several local athletes.

Individual Competition Results

2nd Year Men’s Lightweight

“Rintaro” secured a decision win in the first round, demonstrating an aggressive start. He faced the eventual tournament winner in the second round and, despite a strong effort, was unable to advance.

2nd Year Women’s Heavyweight

“Nico” achieved a dominant performance, winning both matches by ippon. She secured the first win with a successful hold-down of her opponent’s throws. In the final match, a quick foot placement led to a throw, resulting in another ippon victory and the tournament championship.

3rd & 4th Year Women’s Lightweight

“Honori” as well demonstrated strong technique, winning her first two matches by ippon, utilizing a triangle hold and ground game in the first, and Uchimata in the second. She ultimately finished as runner-up, losing a decision to the tournament winner after a hard-fought battle.

First-Time Competitor

“Run” participated in his first official judo match, displaying competitive spirit despite the nerves. Although he lost, he gained valuable experience.

3rd & 4th Year Women’s Heavyweight

“Mao” faced a strong opponent in the first round, with the match ending in a draw decided by the flag. Unfortunately, she lost the match.

4th Year Men’s Lightweight

“Asahi” overcame initial nervousness to win both the first and second rounds. He secured the victory in the final against a fellow student by a narrow margin.

Seitaro’s Performance

“Seitaro” won his first two matches by ippon, including a quick victory with Ouchi-gari. In the final, a close match resulted in a loss by one point.

5th Year Women’s Lightweight

“Maho” received a bye in the first round and bravely challenged an opponent one year her senior in the second. Despite losing by waza-ari and a hold-down, she maintained a strong spirit.

Girls 5th & 6th Grade Heavyweight

“Nene,” competing against a more experienced opponent, set up a strong fight despite the size difference, ultimately losing by waza-ari.

6th Year Boys Lightweight

“Riichi” won his first match and secured a decision win in the second round. He lost in the final match by a technique hold-down.

Daiki’s Tournament

“Daiki” won his first match with a ground game ippon but lost to the tournament winner in the second round.

6 Years Women’s Heavyweight

“Miyuu” won both of her matches by ippon, utilizing effective pushing and triangulation techniques.

Team Matches

Lower Grades Team

The team of “Rintaro” and “Nico” faced a challenging situation with one member absent, requiring both athletes to win their matches to avoid defeat. They secured a win by default in the first round, but ultimately lost in the second round.

Junior High School Division A Team

Led by “Asahi,” “Seitaro,” and “Mao,” the team achieved one win and one draw in the first round. The second round saw another win, but they ultimately lost in the third round.

Middle Grade Division B Team

“Ran” and “Honori” competed bravely against larger opponents, with “Honori” securing a win by hold-down. Despite the loss, their courage was commendable.

Upper Grade A Team

“Daiki,” “Riichi,” and “Miyuu” achieved a strong performance, winning their matches and advancing to the fourth round before ultimately losing.

High School Year B Team

“Maho” and “Nene” faced a strong team and unfortunately lost their match.

Looking Ahead

The tournament provided valuable experience for all participants, particularly the 6th graders competing in their final individual matches. With the Kanmon Kaikyo Tournament and All-Sho on the horizon, athletes are encouraged to build on their experiences and continue striving for improvement. Smoothcomp provides further details on upcoming judo competitions.