Lao judo fighters train at the National Sports Training Centre in Vientiane last month.

Lao Judo Federation to announce contestants at SEA Games

The Lao Judo Federation (LJF) will announce the names of those selected for the judo fighting team, the kata (dance) team, and substitution fighters this month, ahead of the 31st South-East Asian (SEA) Games to be held in Vietnam in May.
The federation will select male contestants in the 55, 60, 66 and 90kg weight categories, while women will compete in the 48 and 52kg divisions of the fighting event.
In addition, one male and one female will be selected to compete in the kata event.
The LJF has held three selection competitions to pick the strongest team for the SEA Games.
Federation Vice President Mr Khemkham Kommanivong said “We will also prepare substitute fighters so that they can compete if any of our first choice contestants tests positive for Covid.”
“We will monitor the progress of the fighters during training and keep checks on their health.”
Japanese trainer Kazuki Kon is coaching the kata team, while Yohei Takimoto, who is a volunteer with JICA, is training the fighting team.
Lao judo referee Mr Chittivet Nouankhaisy, who is experienced at the national and international level, will officiate at judo events during the SEA Games.
The Lao judo team is hopeful of returning home with medal after rigorous training by Japanese martial artists.

By Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong
(Latest Update April 6, 2022)