Great 8! It is an interesting name for a contest: 8 great values of judo. Now is a good time to transfer those principles to paper. The IJF has said hajime for a contest among children, that enables them to demonstrate two sets of skills: drawing and judo. Illustrate any of the judo values and be in with a chance of receiving a prize from the IJF. It is crucial that children receive support from their close ones, while everyone is sharing this period of quarantine.

The 8 judo values: Courage, Respect, Modesty, Friendship, Honour, Honesty, Self-control and Courtesy. Judo does not work without them; they are a core part of our sport. Going to a competition, to the dojo or even home, judoka should always remember them. Therefore, it is important for children to take part, offering them an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and share a task with another young judoka from around the world, staying connected.

It is well known that each of us sees the world differently. In the same way our values have the same principles for all but can be viewed from different perspectives. We are looking forward to seeing how drawings of the same values could be shown so differently. We will bring you some examples of drawings from different parts of the world.

We asked Joana Ramos, a top judoka from the World Judo Tour to draw too and give us some comments on the competition.

“I was really excited when I heard about the contest. I believe it is a great way to teach children about judo values and philosophy in a way they can understand it and really feel it. We can' t do judo, for now, owing to the extreme circumstances we are all facing. Judo makes you feel like a superhero and not all things in life can give you that sensation. I want to give young people courage and strength. So, I made this drawing to honour every family. It' s a tribute to everybody who is saving lives, by working on the front line or staying at home! Be a superhero: save lives, keep safe. Courage to you all!”

Joana's drawing

We also asked double Olympic medallist Rafael Silva (BRA) to highlight how important it is for him to be a part of the contest and judge it.

“I am very honoured to receive this invitation. These 8 values ​​guide me in my trajectory in judo and the have the possibility to inspire people. To develop these virtues is a real privilege. I wish you to do your best and draw with your heart, just as we judoka do on the tatami. Come on children, put the essence of a judoka on paper, give your best and participate with many drawings. Call your friends to do the same. Big hug!”

The contest is for children under 14 years old. It is nevertheless not limiting adults from taking part. Let’s show Judo values to the world. Publish your works on social media under the hashtag #great8 and tag your friends!

The contest has already received hundreds of entries from more than 40 countries. Your turn! Join the judo community in this beautiful activity.

For more drawings see below.

See also