The International Judo Federation’s newest members, the Bhutan Judo Association, recently welcomed London 2012 Olympic silver medallists Hiraoka Hiroaki (-66kg) and Sugimoto Mika (+78kg) of Japan to the Himalayas in South Asia.
Bhutan became the 196th member federation of the
IJF during the IJF Executive Committee meeting in Rio ahead of the Olympics.
Hiraoka and Sugimoto, who were both in Rio working as
analysts for Japanese TV having retired from competitive judo after London
2012, delivered technical sessions in Bhutan and had a memorable stay in the
country.
Hiraoka said: “Judoka in Bhutan are very, very passionate
about the sport. I spent a wonderful time there.
“They enjoyed judo and learned our judo techniques
earnestly. I thank the Bhutan Judo Association for their kindness. I wish
Bhutan further growth and success. We wish to continue our great friendship
that we have built together and continue to support the Association.”