Thus, on 28th October 2024, the Saudi Judo Federation organised a celebratory event in Riyadh to mark World Judo Day, together with the Ensan Charity Committee for orphans. The event was attended by board member Mr Fahd Al-Rabiah, representing the President Dr Abdulaziz Albassam and the Saudi Judo Federation and the CEO Mr Hassan Alanssari.
The social initiative aimed to introduce the audience to the sport of judo and promote its values within society. The event brought together over 50 children of various ages, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with joy, camaraderie and the spirit of judo.
The celebration featured a live judo show, where participants learned about the basics of the game and its core values. In addition to the judo demonstration, various recreational activities and games were organised, fostering an interactive and enthusiastic environment among the attendees. The children engaged in fun activities that not only entertained but also educated them about the principles of the sport.
Officials from the Saudi Judo Federation expressed their happiness with the success of this initiative, emphasising the importance of spreading awareness of the sport and increasing its positive impacts on society. They highlighted the significance of promoting sports values among the youth and children’s populations, reinforcing the idea that judo is not just a physical activity but a means to instill discipline, respect and teamwork.
The federation particularly emphasised some aspects of judo that go beyond the physical fitness dimension:
- Physical Fitness: judo promotes overall health, improving strength, flexibility and co-ordination.
- Discipline and respect: practising judo instills a sense of discipline and respect for oneself and others, which are fundamental principles of the sport.
- Self-defence skills: judo equips individuals with practical self-defence techniques, empowering them to protect themselves in various situations.
- Mental resilience: the challenges faced in judo training help build mental discipline. Practitioners learn to overcome obstacles, manage stress and develop a growth mindset.
- Social connections: judo promotes camaraderie and friendship among practitioners. Events like the one organised by the Saudi Judo Federation create a sense of community, bringing people together for a common purpose.
- Inclusivity: judo is accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities, making it a sport that promotes inclusivity and diversity.
The federation declared, "The celebration of World Judo Day 2024 by the Saudi Judo Federation, in partnership with the Ensan Charity Committee, exemplifies the profound impact of judo beyond the dojo. By engaging with the community and providing children with the opportunity to learn and grow through judo, the federation is not only promoting the sport but also nurturing the next generation.
As judo continues to inspire and empower individuals worldwide, events like these remind us of the importance of compassion, respect and the shared values that unite us all. We want to thank IJF President Mr Marius Vizer and the IJF team for their superior support and the great values of judo which we learn every day."