The Tribune

THE Bahamas Judo Open was held this past weekend and 73 athletes from five clubs vied for the position of Bahamas Judo Open champion in their respective divisions.

The tournament featured several new faces to Bahamas Judo who have been recruited specifically for CARIFTA 2017 and Commonwealth Games 2017 in addition to international medallists who sought to retain their position.

Pan Am medallist Kentico Forbes beat out newcomer Deleon Sweeting to win the over 73kg division.

Desmond Bootle from Abaco dominated the field in under 73 division, beating out rival Andrew Munnings, who is a multiple times international medallist. Under 60 was won by Devonte Sweeting over Javon Eyre.

In the girls’ divisions, Faith Rae won the O70kg division beating out US Junior Open medallist Rachel Rolle. Tranice Cumberbatch became the U15 medium champion defeating Asia Bullard.

“This was a very tough tournament and I am pleased with the athletes’ development to date,” said D’Arcy Rahming Jr, Bahamas Judo head coach. “It is interesting that the majority of our top competitors are already international medallists. And even the newcomers who have international experience also rose to the top. Our goal is to deepen our bench with the CARIFTA Elite Judo Talent Selection Summer Camp.”

The Summer Camp will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church Activity Center on Robinson Road June 27 to August 27. Ages 7 - 16 are eligible to apply. It will be free to persons born in the year 2000, 2001 and 2002. Interested persons should contact allstarbahamas@gmail.com.