A memento is presented to Dr Ajay Gaude by Girish Pednekar.
PANAJI
The National Judo Black Belt Camp and NDIC Examination (West Zone) commenced at the Peddem Sports Complex on Saturday, with 110 participants from across India in attendance.
The event aims to enhance technical skills and evaluate the performance of judokas under the guidance of senior coaches.
Dr Ajay Gaude, Executive Director of the Sports Authority of Goa, attended the inauguration as the chief guest. In his address, he described judo as “one of the most disciplined sports” and encouraged Goan athletes to raise their performance to match national standards. He also mentioned the upcoming Khelo Goa Scheme, which aims to bolster the state’s sporting infrastructure and talent development.
Dronacharya Awardee Jiwan Sharma, also present at the event, highlighted the international stature of judo, noting its inclusion in the Olympic Games since 1964. He cited the example of Linthoi Chanambam, the first Indian judoka to win a world-level bronze medal, as a significant achievement for Indian judo.
Other dignitaries in attendance included coaches and officials Shailesh Tilak, Satish Pahade, Virender Vashist, and Rajan CS.
The opening ceremony was compered by Leena Porob. Girish Pednekar, President of the Goa Judo Association, welcomed the participants, and General Secretary Kripesh Vengurlekar delivered the vote of thanks.
