Gripping Start
Gripping Start
Para judo matches begin with both athletes already gripping each other's gi, removing any visual disadvantage and getting straight into the contest.
Gi grip from the off
Our Sports
Para Judo
Introduction
Grip. Balance. Power.
Para judo is judo adapted for visually impaired athletes, contested under near-identical rules to Olympic judo. South African judokas compete at international level, with the sport supported through clubs and selection events around the country.
How the Sport Works
Adapted For Equal Footing
Para judo keeps the speed, technique and spirit of Olympic judo while adapting the start of every contest so visually impaired athletes compete on equal terms. Athletes are classified by their level of vision and contest the same weight categories as Olympic judo.
Classification
Classification
Open to athletes with visual impairment, classified J1 (very low vision) and J2 (less impaired vision), competing in their respective categories.
J1 & J2
Weight Categories
Weight Categories
Same weight categories as Olympic judo for both men and women, with matches won by ippon, scoring, or referee decision.
Won by ippon
Paralympic Heritage
On the Mat, On Equal Terms
Para judo has been on the Paralympic programme since 1988 and is one of the few para sports played to almost identical rules as its Olympic equivalent. South African judokas compete at international and continental level.
1988
Paralympic debut
J1 & J2
Classification categories
International
South African competition level
Our Sponsors
Our Proud Sponsors
Our partners power South African para judo. From grassroots to Paralympic podiums.
