FreeStyle Judo

The 2010 Southwest Regional Grand Slam Freestyle Judo Tournament, hosted by OKCDT and Matrix Grappling, will take place on May 8th in Oklahoma City. The tournament, which will feature judo and jiu jitsu competitors from throughout the region, will be held at Lake Hefner, in Oklahoma City (weather permitting). Lake Hefner is a sailboat racing lake, and due to its layout and geographical makeup, is a premier lake for sailboat racing in the U.S. On a given Saturday in May, there will be hundreds of cyclists, runners, roller bladers and outdoor enthusiasts present. The tournament will consist of 2 tatami mat areas, covered by a 30 ft x 50 ft tent canopy. There will also be a concession stand present at the lake, including water, soft drinks, sports drinks, and various foods. Note: A change may be made due to weather, if so, there will be an update on this site, as well as emailed to registered competitors.

Freestyle Judo is a new developmental judo movement started by Steve Scott (Welcome Mat Judo), Ken Brink (Brink’s Welcome Mat) and the AAU. Freestyle judo retains the ippon that is thrown with force on the back, but today’s often seen “rolling ippons” are scored but do not end the match. Wazari’s and Yuko’s, scores in judo that add up to conclude the match, are scored as points, but will not end the match, unless a 12 point run rule is met. Points can also be scored in Ne Waza, or the groundwork portion of judo.

Registration forms can now be printed out here, and online registration will be available soon. THIS IS A PRE REGISTRATION EVENT ONLY, and deadline for the event will be Monday, May 3rd. Mailed registrations must be postmarked by April 30th, and online registrations must be completed the day of May 3rd. The Event will be sanctioned by AAU Judo and membership will be required to compete.