Judo is to experience a few changes in its centenary rules. During the Junior World Championships in Bangkok, Thailand, from 23rd to 26th November, IJF Executive Committee members will observe the result of three new suggestions for the regulation of the contests: the use of the entire mat (no mate), the exclusion of koka (the lowest judo score) and the Golden Score with three minutes instead of five. Along with this, athletes will compete in a new format of table, with repechage from the quarterfinalists (not from the semifinalists anymore).
“There is no better laboratory in the world than the Junior World Championship for us to test the new rules”, says IJF President, Mr Marius Vizer.
IJF´s refereeing director, Mr Juan Barcos, explains the reason for the experience. “All we want is to highlight the spirit of judo”, Mr Barcos says.
No conclusion, though, will be made without listening to the judo family. “After the competition we will look for the opinion of players, coaches, referees and officials to see if the changes were successful or not and make our decision before January next year”, explains Mr Barcos. “This is only a test, we want the feedback to make the conclusion”, emphasizes the refereeing director.
Mr Barcos also remembers that referees will continue being strict concerning the correct application of kumikata, excessive defensive posture, false attack and trouser grabbing. “We had already highlighted this at the technical congress in Beijing Olympic Games and referees will continue acting in the same way”, concludes Mr Barcos.
International Judo Federation (Manoela Penna)