Judo: PJF looks for South Asia participation

Awaits for government grant to compete in next month’s event.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Judo federation (PJF) is aiming to represent the country at the 2014 South Asia Judo Championship in Nepal; however it needs grants from the government.

According to PJF Secretary Masood Ahmed, the federation will field seven male and seven female athletes in the event which is scheduled to begin on April 11.

The official stated that a grant of at least Rs 800,000 is required for Pakistan’s participation in the event.

Ahmed said the federation had already shortlisted talented female athletes after the national Women Judo Championship last month.

“I’ve written letters to the government for the grant,” Ahmed told The Express Tribune. “The officials told me that our request is in the process and now we are just hoping the required amount will be issued to us in time.

“Furthermore, the athletes are training with their respective departments. We are also waiting for the visa and approval from the government officials for our national coach Sajjad Kazmi. He will join us from Iran.”

Working towards making history

On the other hand, Ahmed said that Pakistan judo has a good scope with athlete Shah Hussain Shah who is based in Tokyo.

“Shah is our hope for the next Olympics,” said Ahmed. “I’m hoping that with some help from the government and our regular participation in the international events, he makes the qualification.”

Ahmed added that Shah is ranked 45th in the world. He also won the bronze medal in the Asian senior Judo Championship 2013 in 100-kg category.

“Shah will compete in four to five major international events this year, including the Grand Slam in Kazakhstan in May. Later, we’ve scheduled an event in Russia, China and then in Tokyo,” said Ahmed. “We want to provide maximum exposure to Shah Hussain.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 3^rd, 2014.

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