Two minutes of judo in Budapest

A member of Woy Woy Judo Club will travel to Budapest this week to compete for two minutes in the European Judo Unions Grand Masters World Judo Championships in Hungary.

Having competed in the same contest in Germany last year, Woy Woy judo assistant coach Mr Mike Griffiths is looking forward to travelling to compete internationally once again.

"I was the only Australian competitor amongst a heavily contested group of Europeans while the announcer kept calling 'Michael Griffiths of Austria... Sorry that's Australia'," Mr Griffiths said.

"It was a fantastic competition, with judo running second to soccer as the most popular sport in Europe."

With a Sho Dan First Degree Black Belt, Mr Griffiths will not be the only Australian attending this year's event.

Travelling in the company of two officials from Judo Australia.

International kata referee Rob Ivers and Ivor Endicott-Davies will be officiating kata judges.

Mr Griffiths said that, while he was looking forward to the games, it would be a challenge against tough competitors from Russia and Germany.

"There are 22 players in my 50 to 54 years division this time," Mr Griffiths said.

"We will be placed in three or four pools.

"The bout time is two minutes with the rules that use an elimination system with double repechage.

"So you must win your first match in order to continue through."

"It seems like a long way to travel for a two-minute bout, but I'm passionate about my sport and very excited to represent Australia.

"Judo is a life-long activity and you're never too old to be involved."

Press release, 20 May 2010 Lindy Simmons, Woy Woy Judo Club