Three Japanese athletes with intellectual disabilities made their international debuts at the Queensland Open International Judo Tournament in Brisbane on 19 and 20 September. The All Japan Judo Federation reported on 21 October that the delegation also included head coach HAMANA and coach ISHII.
The athletes were competing outside Japan for the first time. After a nervous start, all three found their rhythm and finished on the podium. KOSAI won gold, YOSHIDA took silver and SHINOHARA earned bronze.
The All Japan Judo Federation said the tour gave the athletes experience against competitors from other countries and territories, as well as an opportunity to build friendships with overseas judoka and coaches.
