Bhutan hosts inaugural Jita Kyoei Judo Cup to promote sport and values

Thimpu, Bhutan: The Bhutan Judo Association, on March 27, 2023, partnered with the Japanese government to hold the inaugural “Jita Kyoei Judo Cup” tournament in Thimphu. This event is significant as it promotes not only the practice of Judo in Bhutan, but also the values of “Jita Kyoei”, a Japanese phrase that means mutual welfare and benefit.

Haruki Uemura, the President of the Kodokan Judo Institute, highlighted the importance of such tournaments in promoting Judo in Bhutan and emphasized the Jita Kyoei spirit, where people are willing to promote the welfare of society as a whole. Uemura believes that practicing Judo can help create a society filled with individuals who possess strong body and mind.

Dawa Drakpa, a Judoka, emphasized that the tournament is not only about winning or losing but the importance of participation and the values learned from it. Meanwhile, Jigme Yangsel Dorji, another Judoka, aspired to represent Bhutan again on an international level and become a coach.

Sabrina Filzmoser, the Chairperson of the International Judo Federation Athletes Commission and a two-time bronze medalist at the World Judoka Championships, also attended the event. She aimed to spread Judo values around the world, emphasizing that in Bhutan, they are fortunate to have a community that already understands the values of friendship, respect, and courage, which Judo represents.

Three Bhutanese Judo athletes will participate in the Asian Open Kuwait Cup next month and the 19th Asian Games in China in September. Judo, a Japanese martial art, was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano.