SJB Participates in USA Judo Junior National Olympics and International Championships

[Arik-Quang V. Dao]

SJBJC Students compete at the USA Judo Junior Olympics

Three of our students traveled to the USA Judo Junior Olympic and International Championships  this past weekend, June 23rd and 24th in Spokane, Washington.

With more than 900 competitors Cassie Itatani, Shane Takara and Allison Takara fought very well in very competitive divisions.

Day1: National Championships

Cassie Itatani /Interm.1 26kg  competing in two divisions, getting a total of 6 Ippons and winning two Gold Medals   

Shane Takara/ Interm.2 34kg competing in his first Nationals, got a win in a very competitive division

Allison Takara/Juv.A 40kg. also competing in her first Nationals, fought hard and went 0-2 in a highly competitive divison 

Day2: International Championships

Cassie Itatani again fought in two divisions and took two more Gold Medals winning by 5 Ippons; bringing a two day total of 11 Ippons; using foot techniques and mat work.

Allison Takara competing in her first International Tournament, had two wins,  including one by Ippon throw for a Gold Medal  

Shane Takara also competing in his first International Tournament fought back from a 1st round loss. He won his next two matches by Ippon throws, but fell short of a medal

Andy Takara who was recently certified as a National Coach in May was the Club Coach.

Congratulations Cassie, Allison, Shane and Coach Andy Takara!

Derek