Organised by the Bhutan Judo Association, one of the newest national federations in the judo world, the tournament demonstrated the country’s deep commitment to youth development through sport. Despite its recent founding, Bhutan has embraced judo with passion, integrating it in schools and promoting its values nationwide.
The tournament was made possible through the support of the government of India, the Kobe-Bhutan Friendship Association and the Bhutan Olympic Committee, with endorsement from the Kodokan Institute in Tokyo and the personal involvement of its president, Haruki Uemura.
The event also benefited from the long-standing dedication of Sabrina Filzmoser, a world-class judoka and IJF Climate Ambassador, who has supported Bhutan’s judo journey tirelessly through mentoring, training and advocacy.
In a message of support, IJF President Marius Vizer affirmed the global importance of the tournament, “I extend my warmest regards to your organisation. Your dedication to fostering mutual welfare and benefit through judo exemplifies the true spirit of Jita Kyoei. This tournament serves as a platform for friendship, skill enhancement and cultural exchange, further strengthening the bonds of camaraderie among judoka from diverse backgrounds, under the guidance of the Kodokan Institute.”
Embodying the principle of Jita Kyoei, mutual prosperity for self and others, the tournament became more than a competition. Bhutanese children trained with Japanese coaches and judoka from Hanazono University, learning not only techniques but also the values of humility, discipline and friendship.
A defining moment came when Bhutan’s Norbu Penden Norzang faced Léa, accompanied by her father, who himself participated in the Veteran World Championships several times, in a gripping bout. After Norbu’s hard-fought victory, Léa ran into the arms of her father and coach, Alexis Plantard (https://www.ijf.org/news/show/just-dream-it-and-go-for-it). What followed was a heartfelt handshake and embrace between the two young competitors, an image that captured the soul of the event.
In his closing speech, Karma L. Dorji, president of the Bhutan Judo Association, reflected, “This tournament is not just about medals. It’s about character, connection and aligning sport with gross national happiness. We are building more than judoka. We are building people.”
The tatami in Bhutan may now rest, but the spirit of this 3rd edition lives on, in friendships forged, values learned and the shared belief that judo can shape a better world.