Judo competition kicks off

The 34th National Judo competition kicks off Friday at Shahed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium in Mirpur with the glorious performance of Bangladesh Ansar as they clinch seven gold medals on the opening day, a press release said yesterday.

The 2-day tournament begins with a inaugural function held at the same venue on Friday morning. Bangladesh Judo Federation (BJF) president Brigadier General (retd.) SK Abu Bakar formally inaugurated as the chief guest. The other BJF officials also present during the function including general secretary A K M Salim and vice-president Rayhar Uddin Fakir.

On the first day of the competition in women's division, Bilkis Khatun of Bangladesh Ansar won gold in 63-kg weight category, Shahida Khatun of BKSP won gold in 57-kg weight category, Monishu Marma of Bangladesh Ansae won gold in 52-kg weight category, Swepru Marma bagged gold in 48-kg weight category, Nilufa Akter secured gold in 44-kg weight category and Srity Khatun of Bangladesh Ansar bagged gold in 40-kg weight category.

In the men's division, Bampru Marma of Bangladesh Ansar won gold in 73-kg weight category, Sharif Hossain of Bangladesh Ansar secured gold in 66-kg weight category and Abu Raihan of BKSP clinched gold in 60-kg weight category.

A total of 214 participants- 94 of men's and 120 of women's- will take part in 19 (ten of men's and nine of women's) weight categories of the competition. The prize giving ceremony will be held today at the same venue on 4PM.

-AA Sports Desk