As some fouls in the basketball event were let go at the
entertainment-like Special Olympics, the judo competition are
showing some real fight.
Making its debut at the Special Olympics as a competitive sport,
the judo competition features over 140 athletes coming from 19
countries and regions. It is conducted at different levels based on
athletes' weights, ages and athletic abilities.
"The sport integrates agility, flexibility, strength and skill.
Although there are physical contacts between two judokas, all the
athletes are taught to restrict their aggression," Chinese judge
Zhou Mingui said. "As I see it, the judokas are all fighting for
win in the competition. Whenever they try one knack to have the
opponent down on the floor, they feel very happy."
Judo used to be organized as a demonstration sport at the
Special Olympics, and had never made it as a competitive sport
before due to the possible injury, Zhou said.
"Don't worry about those that are knocked down, the athletes
have already learnt how to be downed in a safe way," he added.
According to the new guidelines, several techniques are not
allowed in the Special Olympics judo practice or competition. These
include sacrificial throws and arm-locks since these can cause
serious injury.
The 18-year-old Frenchman Davy Hennerey has trained for the
sport for many years and was eager to win more glory.
"Of course I want to win, I used to win three medals in France
and Berlin, two silvers plus one bronze."
His coach Nolwenn Levasseur admitted that it was hard to train
them but the coaches just had the "special way to let them
know".
"Sports is the best way to develop their skills. They may find
it hard to understand the skills but it is always fun for them to
imitate," the coach said.
"They deserve more care and patience, and they can live a
wonderful life just like us, although they might follow a different
path."
(Xinhua News Agency October 8, 2007)