Canada is home to some of the best judo players in the world. From Olympic medalists to world champions, Canada has produced a number of outstanding judokas who have achieved success at the highest levels of the sport.
Some of the most prominent Canadian judo players include Nicolas Gill, Antoine Valois-Fortier, and Kyle Reyes. Each of these judokas has achieved success at the international level and has helped to bring recognition to the sport in Canada.
We will look at the accomplishments of these and other Canadian judokas who have made a mark in the world of judo.
1. Raymond Damblant
Raymond Damblant is an incredible athlete who has made a lasting impact on the sport of Judo. He is a dual citizen of both France and Canada and is highly respected in the sport.
He is one of only five Canadian judoka to have achieved the rank of kudan, which is the highest rank attainable in judo.
This is a remarkable achievement and is a testament to his years of hard work and dedication to the sport. Damblant has also been heavily involved in the development of Canadian Judo, particularly in the Quebec region.
He has been instrumental in helping to create a thriving judo culture in the region and has helped to develop many clubs and academies.
His work has enabled more people in the area to learn and practice judo and has provided many opportunities to those who may not have had them otherwise. Damblant’s dedication to the sport of judo is evident in his accomplishments and his commitment to its growth in Canada.
He is a true testament to the power of hard work and dedication and is an inspiration to those who wish to pursue their dreams.
2. Catherine Beauchemin-Pinard
Catherine Beauchemin-Pinard is a remarkable Canadian judoka who competes in the women’s 63 kg category. She made history in 2020 at the Summer Olympics, when she took home a bronze medal in the 63 kg weight class.
This extraordinary accomplishment made her the second Canadian woman to receive a medal in judo at the Summer Olympics. This is an impressive feat, considering that judo is a highly competitive sport.
It requires intense physical and mental strength, as well as immense dedication and training. Beauchemin-Pinard has obviously put a great deal of effort into her training and is now reaping the rewards.
Her win is a source of pride and encouragement for other Canadian judokas, who can look to her as an example of what is achievable through hard work and perseverance.
Beauchemin-Pinard’s success is a milestone in Canadian judo history, and it serves as an inspiring message to the nation. Her win is an affirmation of the potential of Canadian athletes, and it is a reminder that anything is possible when you set your mind to it.
With her inspiring performance, Beauchemin-Pinard has become a role model for Canadian judokas and athletes alike.
3. Antoine Valois-Fortier
Antoine Valois-Fortier is a Canadian judoka who has since retired after an illustrious career. He achieved a great feat in 2012 when he won the bronze medal in the −81 kg category at the 2012 Olympics.
This accomplishment was a historic one, as Valois-Fortier became the first Canadian to win a medal in Olympic judo in twelve years and the fifth to win one in Canadian history.
This remarkable feat brought a surge of pride to the Canadian judo community and placed Valois-Fortier in the annals of Canadian sporting history. He had a long and successful career, and his Olympic medal win was a fitting finale for one of Canada’s greatest judokas.
4. Rainer Fischer
Rainer Fischer is a Canadian retired judoka who achieved great success in his sport. He represented Canada at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and won the gold medal at the 1975 Pan American Games in the men’s middleweight division.
In addition, he won a bronze medal at the 1974 Pan American judo championships in Panama. His accomplishments demonstrate his skill and dedication to the sport of judo.
Fischer is a role model for aspiring judokas, and his wins demonstrate the hard work and commitment it takes to succeed in the sport. He was able to overcome obstacles and reach the heights of success in judo.
His legacy continues to inspire other judokas to strive for excellence in the sport. Fischer’s accomplishments also serve as a reminder of the importance of physical fitness and commitment to excellence.
His legacy of success will continue to live on and serve as an example for future generations of judokas. His success serves as a reminder of the potential of judo and the dedication needed to reach the top.
5. Louis Jani
Louis Jani is an accomplished judoka from Canada who was fortunate enough to represent his nation at two Summer Olympic Games in 1984 and 1988. However, he sadly had to miss out on the 1980 Moscow Olympics due to Canada’s boycott of the games.
Despite this, he was able to take home two gold medals in the middleweight division from the Pan American Games.
This was a remarkable achievement that demonstrated his prowess as a judoka. Louis Jani is a prime example of a dedicated athlete who has achieved great success in his sport.
His ability to adapt to the circumstances and still come away with two gold medals from the Pan American Games displays his strength of character and commitment to the sport.
His story is one of inspiration and motivation, showing that with hard work and dedication anything is possible. He is a role model for many aspiring judokas who are looking to follow in his footsteps.
6. Keith Morgan
Keith Morgan was a highly successful judoka from Canada. He made a name for himself in the world of judo by competing in four consecutive Summer Olympics.
His impressive track record earned him four medals at the Pan American Games. Morgan began his judo career as a child, and competed in his first Olympics in 1984, the same year he won the bronze medal at the Pan American Games.
After that, he went on to compete in the 1988, 1992 and 1996 Olympics and also won medals at the Pan American Games in 1987, 1991 and 1995.
Throughout his career, Morgan gained a reputation for his technical skills and mental strength, and he was known for his determination and commitment to the sport. At the end of his career, Morgan was recognized as one of the greatest judokas of all time.
He was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 2002 and was given the Order of Canada in 2003. He has since retired from judo, but his accomplishments and legacy remain an inspiration to many judoka.
7. Doug Rogers
Alfred Harold Douglas Rogers was a Canadian judoka who achieved great success in his sport. He was the first Canadian to win an Olympic medal in judo, taking home a silver medal from the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
He also won a gold medal at the 1967 Pan American Games, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest Canadian judokas of all time. Rogers’ accomplishments were widely recognized and he was an honoured member of the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.
This honor is a testament to the incredible skill and dedication that Rogers brought to his sport. He inspired many Canadians to take up judo and strive for excellence. His legacy lives on in the countless athletes that have followed in his footsteps.
8. Karen Sheffield
Karen Sheffield Heney is an inspiring figure in the world of judo. She was a Canadian judoka and coach who had a successful career in the sport. Born in 1961, she began competing internationally in 1982.
Over the course of her career, Karen Sheffield Heney achieved remarkable success.
She won three medals at the Pan American Judo Championships between 1982 and 1986, including a gold medal in the women’s 70 kg category in 1986. Karen Sheffield Heney was known for her dedication to judo and her willingness to help others in the sport.
She was a mentor to many young judokas and was a member of the Canadian Judo Association’s Coaching Council.
In addition to her competitive achievements, she was an active member of the judo community, helping to promote the sport in Canada. Karen Sheffield Heney retired from judo in 1986, but she continues to be an influential figure in the sport.
She has been inducted into the Canadian Judo Hall of Fame and was named an honorary member of the International Judo Federation in 2002. She is an inspiration to aspiring judokas everywhere and a testament to the power of dedication and hard work.
9. Jessica Klimkait
Jessica Klimkait is an incredible athlete who achieved a remarkable feat in 2021. She is a Canadian Judoka who competes in the women’s 57 kg category and is now the second ever judo world champion from Canada.
Klimkait was able to defeat Momo Tamaoki of Japan in the women’s lightfoot final at the championships in Budapest, Hungary; this victory was not only an incredible personal achievement, but it also secured her a spot in the Tokyo Olympic Games. Klimkait’s success is inspiring to many athletes around the world.
Her hard work and dedication has enabled her to reach heights that few have ever been able to achieve. Her victory in Budapest proves to the world that anything is possible with the right attitude and effort.
This is a great example of how hard work and dedication can pay off in the long run. Klimkait’s success is a testament to the bright future of judo in Canada. Her win shows that Canada can and will be a dominant force in the sport.
It is also a great example of the power of teamwork and collaboration between athletes and coaches.
Klimkait’s win is a great example of what can happen when everyone comes together and works hard to achieve a common goal. Klimkait’s win is a huge milestone for Canada and the judo community. Her success is a great reminder that anything is possible.
Her win is a great example of what can happen when hard work and dedication are combined with the right attitude and environment. It is a great reminder of the power of ambition and teamwork.
Klimkait’s victory is a great representation of the power of perseverance and determination.
10. Kevin Doherty
Kevin Doherty is a remarkable athlete who has achieved great success. He is a retired judoka from Canada who had the honor of representing his country at the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics.
Doherty’s accomplishments extend beyond these Games, as he won the silver medal at the 1979 Pan American Games in the lightweight division. Additionally, he won the bronze medal at the 1981 World Championships in the Half Middleweight division.
This is an impressive list of achievements, and it is clear that Doherty is a dedicated and talented judoka. He is an inspiration to aspiring judokas everywhere, and his accomplishments will be remembered for years to come.
11. Tina Takahashi
Tina Takahashi is an exceptional athlete and role model in the world of Judo. She is a judoka, meaning she is an expert in the martial art of judo, as well as a coach and author.
In 1984, Takahashi made history by winning Canada’s first-ever gold medal at the World University Games in judo. She was also the first women’s Olympic Judo coach in 1988, coaching Canada’s first women’s Judo Olympian Sandra Greaves.
Takahashi is an inspiration to Canadian judokas, providing a shining example of success and dedication to the sport. Her passion and drive for the sport have undoubtedly had a lasting impact on the Canadian judo community.
12. Justin Karn
Justin Karn is a Canadian judoka who was selected to represent Canada in Judo at the 2012 Paralympics.
He competed in the -60 kg category and was eliminated from the tournament in repêchage due to a disqualification by penalties in his match against South Korea’s Min-Jae Lee. Judo is a Japanese martial art and Olympic sport, which is also included in the Paralympic Games.
In Judo, two opponents compete against each other in a match, trying to gain control over the other. The match is supervised by a referee who awards penalties for violations of the rules of the sport. Justin Karn was one of the judokas competing at the 2012 Paralympics in London.
He had advanced to the repêchage stage of the tournament, where he was to compete against South Korea’s Min-Jae Lee. Unfortunately, during the match, Karn was disqualified by penalties, which resulted in his elimination from the tournament.
This was a significant blow for the Canadian judoka, who had worked hard in preparation for the Paralympics. Karn’s disqualification serves as a reminder of the importance of following the rules of the sport.
His disqualification shows that penalties can have a major impact on a judoka’s performance and can even result in elimination from competition.
Thus, it is essential for judokas to abide by the rules of the sport in order to ensure they can compete fairly and to the best of their ability.
13. Kelita Zupancic
Kelita Zupancic is a very successful judoka from Canada. She has achieved great success in her sport, winning three gold medals for Canada in the Pan-Am judo championships. Specifically, she won gold medals in 2010, 2013, and 2015.
This makes her one of the most decorated judokas in the world and is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport. Zupancic is a role model for aspiring judokas in Canada, showing that it is possible to achieve success in judo at the highest level.
She has inspired many other judokas to strive for excellence and reach the pinnacle of their sport. Her career achievements are something that all Canadian judokas can look to for inspiration and motivation. Kelita Zupancic has achieved something very special in her career.
Not only has she won three gold medals in the Pan-Am judo championships, but she has also been an inspiration to many other judokas in Canada.
Her dedication and hard work have brought her significant success and recognition, making her one of the most successful judokas in the world.
14. Janusz Pawłowski
Janusz Pawłowski is a retired male judoka from Poland. He is one of the most decorated judokas in the history of his country, having won numerous medals in major international tournaments.
At the 1980 Summer Olympics, he competed in the Men’s Half-Lightweight division and earned the bronze medal. His success at the Olympics earned him great respect among the international judo community.
In addition to his Olympic success, Janusz Pawłowski also competed at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. Though he did not win a medal at these games, he still put in a strong performance and was a great representative for Poland.
His commitment to the sport of judo is admirable, and he is still remembered fondly by the judo community.
15. Hiroshi Nakamura
Hiroshi Nakamura CM is a renowned judoka who has achieved great success in his sport. He is a Japanese-Canadian dual citizen, and one of only five Canadians to have been awarded the rank of Kudan, which is the highest rank of judo.
Nakamura has been a key contributor to the development of judo in Canada for many years. He has been instrumental in the running of various judo organizations and clubs and has served as a mentor for many young judoka.
He has also led and supported various high-level competitions and was an integral part of the Canadian Judo Team during the 2000 Olympic Games.
His commitment to the sport and to its development in Canada is unparalleled, and his efforts have been recognized with multiple honors, including the Order of Canada in 2006.
16. Yeiji Inouye
Yeiji “Lanky” Inouye was a Canadian judoka who made a lasting impression on the martial art. He was one of only five Canadians to achieve the rank of Kudan, which is the highest rank a judoka can attain.
With his remarkable accomplishments, Inouye was deeply involved in the development of judo in Canada. He was a tireless advocate of the sport and sought to increase its popularity and spread it to more people.
Inouye was a major contributor to the sport’s growth, and he was a mentor to many aspiring judokas. His legacy lives on today in the form of the Canadian Judo Association, which he helped found in 1969.
He also helped create the Canadian Judo Championships, which now attract athletes from all over the world. Inouye’s accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and commitment to judo and its continued success in Canada.
17. Shigetaka Sasaki
Shigetaka “Steve” Sasaki was an influential figure in the Judo world. He was a Japanese and Canadian judoka, meaning he was both a practitioner and an instructor of the art. He is best known for founding the first judo club in Canada.
This was a major milestone for the sport in the country, as it was one of the first organizations of its kind. Sasaki was highly respected in the Judo community for his commitment and passion for the martial art.
He was passionate about sharing his knowledge, and he taught Judo at a number of locations throughout Canada. He was a highly sought-after teacher, and many students eagerly sought to learn from him. Sasaki was also an important figure in the history of Canadian Judo.
He was instrumental in bringing Judo to the country, and he was instrumental in popularizing the sport.
He was also responsible for organizing some of the first Judo competitions in Canada. Because of his immense contributions to the sport of Judo, Sasaki is often referred to as the “Father of Canadian Judo”.
He is remembered for his passion and dedication to the art, and he is an inspiration to many Judo practitioners today.
18. Mitchell Kawasaki
Mitchell Kawasaki is a talented athlete with a wealth of experience in both wrestling and judo.
He has represented Canada in both disciplines on the international stage. Kawasaki first competed in the sport of wrestling at the 1976 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the men’s Greco-Roman 48 kg division.
He put in an impressive performance and was able to showcase his talent on the world stage. Kawasaki also had an impressive record in judo. He represented Canada at the World Judo Championships in 1971 and 1973.
During these tournaments, he was able to demonstrate his skills in the sport and prove his ability to compete on the world stage. Kawasaki is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication in sports.
His ability to compete and excel in both wrestling and judo is an impressive feat and speaks to his commitment to excellence. He has been able to compete at the highest levels in both disciplines and is an inspiration to athletes everywhere.
19. Duncan Vignale
Duncan Vignale is a Canadian judoka who has been a major contributor to the growth and development of judo in Canada and particularly in Ontario.
He has dedicated himself to the advancement of martial art in the country, and his efforts have been instrumental in making judo popular in Canada. Vignale has been involved in many facets of the judo world, including teaching, coaching, and officiating.
He has been coaching for more than 40 years, and his commitment to the sport has been evident in the success of his students. He has helped to create a strong judo community in Ontario and has served as a mentor to many.
Vignale has been the president of the Canadian Judo Federation and the head coach of the Ontario Provincial Judo Team. He has also been a member of the Canadian National Team and has competed in several international competitions.
He has been cited for his contributions to the sport and has been inducted into the Canadian Judo Hall of Fame. Vignale has also been a major advocate for the sport and has been involved in many charitable organizations.
He has helped to promote judo in schools and in the community and has provided support to those in need. His commitment to the sport has earned him the respect of many in the judo community, and he is highly regarded as a leader in the sport.
Duncan Vignale is an exemplary figure in the judo world, and his contributions to the sport have been notable. He has helped to grow the sport in Canada and in Ontario, and his dedication to judo will continue to be felt for years to come.
20. Goki Uemura
Goki Uemura is a Canadian judoka who made history when he represented Canada in the 1973 World Judo Championships. He competed in the -70 kg category, which is a weight class in judo.
Uemura was the first Canadian to ever compete in the World Judo Championships, paving the way for Canadian judokas to compete internationally. He was also the first Canadian to win a medal in the event, winning the bronze.
Uemura’s success was significant for the sport of judo in Canada. His performance was a major motivation for aspiring judokas in the country and his success inspired judokas to strive for excellence.
His achievement also helped to increase the visibility of judo in Canada and brought attention to the sport in the country. Uemura’s success has had lasting impacts on the sport of judo in Canada.
Today, there are many successful Canadian judokas who are competing in international competitions. This is in large part due to Uemura’s pioneering spirit and his significant achievement in the 1973 World Judo Championships.
He is a true Canadian sporting hero and his legacy will be remembered for years to come.
21. Mamoru Oye
Mamoru “Moe” Oye is an accomplished Canadian judoka, having achieved the highest rank a judoka can reach in the sport – kudan. This is a significant accomplishment as only five Canadians have ever achieved this rank.
Oye has been a major contributor to the development of Judo in Canada, particularly in Manitoba. He has been instrumental in organizing events and training athletes in the sport, helping to grow the sport and improve the understanding and appreciation of Judo across the country.
Oye has also been a major advocate for the importance of safety in Judo, working to ensure that the sport is practiced safely and that athletes are properly trained and equipped to compete.
He has been an important leader in promoting the sport of Judo in Canada, and his work has had a lasting impact on the development of the sport.
22. Yoshio Senda
Yoshio Senda CM was a prominent figure in the judo world. He was a Member of the Order of Canada, making him one of the highest-ranking judo practitioners in the country. He was also the first to receive the title of kudan in Judo, a prestigious ranking in the sport.
In addition, Senda was the founder of the Lethbridge Kyodokan Judo Club, which has since become a major institution in the judo community. In 1989, Senda was honored for his accomplishments with an honorary Doctor of Law degree from the University of Lethbridge.
This was a significant achievement for Senda, as it was a recognition of his contributions to the sport. Furthermore, it demonstrated the importance of his work in the judo community and the respect it earned.
Senda’s legacy continues to this day, and he is remembered as an influential figure in Canadian judo. He was a pioneer in the sport, and his work has had a lasting impact on the judo community. His achievements and dedication to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
23. Masao Takahashi
Masao Takahashi was an incredibly accomplished Canadian judoka, author, coach, and founder of the Takahashi School of Martial Arts in Ottawa, Ontario.
Throughout his impressive 70-plus-year career, Masao Takahashi achieved the rank of hachi-dan, which is one of the highest judo rankings a Canadian can receive.
This accomplishment made him an icon in the Canadian judo world, and he is remembered for his incredible contributions to the sport. Masao Takahashi began his judo career at the age of 16 in his hometown of Tokyo.
He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a judo instructor by the age of 20. After World War II, he moved to Canada and began teaching judo in Ottawa. He created the Takahashi School of Martial Arts in Ottawa and it quickly became a fixture in the community.
Throughout his career, Masao Takahashi wrote books on the sport of judo and also coached many students who went on to become champions themselves. Masao Takahashi was an incredible figure in the Canadian judo world.
He dedicated his life to the sport, and his hard work and dedication paid off with the prestigious hachi-dan rank. Through his school, his books, and his coaching, Masao Takahashi left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire Canadian judokas for many years to come.
24. Vincent Grifo
Vincent Grifo is a Canadian judoka who gained renown for his impressive accomplishments on the world stage. He represented Canada in the 1969 World Judo Championships, competing in the -80 kg weight category.
Grifo was one of the first Canadian judokas to make an international impact, and he put Canada on the judo map.
His performance at this championship was notable, as he was the first Canadian to compete in the event. Grifo was a dedicated athlete who trained hard and was passionate about judo.
He was known for his technique and agility, which enabled him to achieve success in the -80 kg weight division.
His commitment to the sport was evident in his performances, and he gained recognition for his success at the World Judo Championships. Grifo’s dedication to the sport and his impressive performance at the World Judo Championships is an inspiration for judokas all over the world.
His legacy will continue to motivate judokas to strive for excellence and strive for greatness.
25. Minoru Hatashita
Minoru “Frank” Hatashita was a pioneer in the world of Judo. He was the first Canadian to achieve the rank of hachidan, which is the highest rank available in the martial art.
This is an incredible achievement and one that speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of Hatashita. Hatashita was a passionate advocate for the development and promotion of Judo in Canada.
He had a deep understanding of the art and actively sought to share his knowledge with the next generation of Judokas. He was instrumental in establishing the Judo Canada organization, which is dedicated to the growth of the sport in the country.
He also served as the president of the Canadian Judo Association and was a member of the International Judo Federation. Hatashita was a committed mentor to young Judokas and was always willing to share his expertise with those who sought it.
In addition to his involvement in the Canadian Judo community, Hatashita also had a successful competitive career.
He won numerous national and international championships and was the Canadian judo champion from 1950-1953. Hatashita’s legacy lives on in the Canadian Judo community. His contributions to the sport are still remembered and appreciated to this day.
He was a true pioneer in the world of Judo, and his dedication and passion will continue to inspire future generations of Judokas.
26. Kyle Reyes
Kyle Reyes is a Canadian judoka who competes in the men’s 100 kg category. He was born in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and is well known for his accomplishments in the world of judo.
In 2013, he achieved a major milestone when he won the gold medal at the World Junior Championships in Ljubljana. This accomplishment made Reyes the first Canadian judoka to win a gold medal in the World Junior Championships.
Reyes’ success is a testament to his hard work and dedication within the sport. He is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when one puts in the effort to reach his or her goal.
The gold medal win is a significant accomplishment for both Reyes and the Canadian judo community. It is a stepping stone for the many other judoka who aspire to reach the same level of success.
Reyes’ commitment to his sport and his determination to be the best are truly inspiring. He is a great role model for other athletes and a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success.
27. Nicolas Gill
Nicolas Gill is a highly accomplished Canadian judoka who has achieved success at the highest level of the sport. He has competed at four consecutive Olympic Games, beginning with the 1992 Games in Barcelona, where he won a bronze medal in the middleweight division.
He also won a silver medal in the men’s half-heavyweight division at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics. With these two medals, Gill is one of only a few Canadian judokas to win multiple Olympic medals.
His impressive career demonstrates a commitment to excellence and dedication to the sport. Gill’s success also serves as an inspiration to aspiring judokas all over the world.
28. Alexandre Émond
Alexandre Émond is a Canadian judoka who has achieved success in the sport, both in international and Pan-American competitions. He represented Canada at the 2012 Summer Olympics and was entered in the 90 kg event.
Unfortunately, he was eliminated in the first round by British judoka Winston Gordon.Émond has had a great deal of success in the Pan American Judo Championships, having won two gold, one silver, and two bronze medals between 2008 and 2012.
This is an impressive record that demonstrates his skill in the sport. He is a dedicated and talented judoka who has made a name for himself in the judo world.
29. Zachary Burt
Zachary Burt is a Canadian judoka, a practitioner of the Japanese martial art Judo. He has achieved great success in the sport, culminating in his bronze medal win at the 2017 Judo Grand Slam Abu Dhabi in the -90 kg category.
This accomplishment was particularly impressive as Burt had to battle through a field of some of the best judokas in the world in order to claim the medal. Burt is a dedicated athlete and has worked hard to be able to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
His bronze medal is a testament to his tireless commitment and determination to succeed. Burt serves as an inspiration to other budding judokas and shows that anything is possible if you put in the hard work and dedication.
30. Wayne Erdman
Wayne Erdman is a Canadian judoka who has had a long and successful career in the sport. He competed in the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, and won the gold medal at the 1975 Pan American Games in the men’s lightweight division.
After his retirement, Erdman was rewarded with the high rank of 7th dan, the highest rank attainable in the sport. He now chairs the Grading Board for Judo Ontario, where he is responsible for determining the rank of all judoka in the province.
His long and successful career has earned him the respect and admiration of the judo community.
31. Glenn Beauchamp
Glenn Beauchamp is a Canadian judoka, a martial art that combines striking and throwing techniques.
He has competed in Judo at the Summer Olympics on two occasions; firstly at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, California, and secondly at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea.
His participation in the 1984 Olympics marked the first time a Canadian judoka had been sent to the Olympics.
He was also the first Canadian to win a medal at the World Championships, taking the bronze in 1983 in Paris, France. Glenn’s experience in Judo has enabled him to gain a significant level of expertise in the sport.
He has been a coach at many of the leading Judo clubs in Canada, leading to him being inducted into the Canadian Judo Hall of Fame in 2007.
He also serves as a technical advisor to the Canadian Judo Federation and was instrumental in the development of the organization’s coaching certification program. Glenn’s commitment to Judo has been recognized beyond Canadian borders as well.
In 2013, he was selected to be a member of the Canadian delegation to the International Judo Federation’s World Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
His expertise in the sport has enabled him to help shape Judo’s development on a global scale, and he is viewed as a major contributor to the sport’s success. In addition to his accomplishments in Judo, Glenn has also been involved in various other projects.
He has been featured in multiple documentaries and has served as a mentor and advisor to various Judo clubs and organizations. His commitment to the sport and to developing the next generation of Judo practitioners is undeniable.
32. Marie-Hélène Chisholm
Marie-Hélène Chisholm is a Canadian judoka who achieved much success in her career. She began her judo journey at early age and quickly rose to success.
In 2002, Chisholm brought home a gold medal after competing in the 70 kg weight category at the A Tournament in Sofia, Bulgaria. This win was a major accomplishment for Chisholm and her country. It was her biggest achievement at the time and made her a celebrated athlete.
Chisholm continues to be an inspiration to judokas around the world, as she has shown that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
She is an example of what it takes to be successful, and her achievements serve as an example to those who aspire to reach the same level of excellence.
33. Sasha Mehmedovic
Sasha Mehmedovic is a Canadian judoka, a sport which is derived from Jiu-Jitsu and involves grappling techniques. He travelled to the 2012 Summer Olympics in London with high hopes of taking home a medal.
Unfortunately, he was defeated in the second round of the Men’s 66 kg weight class. Despite this, his efforts were not in vain as he was still able to make his country proud. He fought hard and displayed great skill and technique throughout the tournament.
As a result, his dedication to the sport was recognized and praised by many. This was a great accomplishment and an honour for Mehmedovic, as well as Canada.
34. Brad Farrow
Brad Farrow is a renowned retired judoka from Canada. He had a successful career in judo, representing his native country at two Summer Olympics – 1976 and 1984.
Throughout his career, he achieved a number of accolades, including two gold medals at the Pan American Games in 1975 and 1979. He competed in the featherweight division during both of these tournaments.
Farrow’s success at the 1976 Olympics was especially noteworthy, as he became the first Canadian judoka to win a medal at the Olympics. He was also the first Canadian to win a gold medal at the Pan American Games in 1975.
His victory at the 1984 Olympics was particularly significant as it was the first time a Canadian judoka had ever won a medal in two consecutive Olympics. Farrow’s accomplishments are a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport of judo.
His successes brought recognition to Canada’s judo program and inspired countless aspiring judokas to strive for greatness. He is a true Canadian sports hero and will be remembered for his achievements in the sport.
35. Fred Blaney
Fred Blaney is an accomplished judoka from Canada. He represented his country in the men’s open category event at the 1984 Summer Olympics. Judo is a traditional Japanese martial art, which focuses on grappling techniques such as throws, joint locks, pins and chokeholds.
Blaney demonstrated his mastery of these techniques at the 1984 Olympics, competing against some of the best judokas in the world. He gave a strong performance, showing the dedication and skill that he has developed over the years.
While he did not win a medal, Blaney can be proud of his achievement, as it takes a great deal of hard work and dedication to reach the level of competition at the Olympics.
His participation in the 1984 Olympics is a testament to his commitment to judo, and to Canada’s sporting prowess.
36. Mark Berger
Mark Berger is a judoka who has achieved great success in his sport. Born in Ukraine, he is now a Canadian citizen. He won gold in the men’s heavyweight judo event at the 1983 Pan American Games, demonstrating his prowess in the martial art.
His commitment to Judo was further evidenced when he earned a bronze medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics. In addition to his skill in judo, he also competed in sambo, an art he was able to demonstrate at the 1988 World Championships where he won a silver medal.
His accomplishments are a testament to the dedication and hard work that he has put into his martial arts career. Mark Berger is a great example of what can be achieved when you put your mind to something.
37. Étienne Briand
Etienne Briand is a Canadian judoka or a practiced of the sport of Judo. He achieved a great success in 2019 when he became the bronze medallist of the Judo Grand Slam Ekaterinburg in the -81 kg category.
This is a prestigious tournament that features some of the best judo athletes from all over the world. Etienne’s impressive performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
He has trained and competed in many tournaments in the past, and his hard work has finally paid off. He has shown that Canadians can also be competitive on the international level in Judo.
His success is an inspiration to other Canadian judokas who have the same dreams of achieving success in the sport.
38. Christa Deguchi
Christa Deguchi is a Canadian athlete who competes in the sport of judo. She is a multiple-time Canadian National judo champion and has won bronze medals at the Pan American Championships.
Deguchi is currently ranked 4th in the world in the women’s under-57kg division. Deguchi began her judo career at the age of eight and was quickly recognized as a top talent.
She won her first Canadian National judo championship at the age of 14 and has since gone on to win eight more. In addition to her many national titles, Deguchi has also achieved success at the international level.
She won a bronze medal at the 2011 Pan American Championships and later earned a bronze medal at the 2013 Summer Universiade. Deguchi is currently a member of Canada’s National Judo Team and is training for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
She is highly motivated to achieve success at the highest level of the sport.
Deguchi has said that she is “laser-focused on the Olympic dream” and that she is “preparing every day for that moment.” Her incredible dedication and hard work have certainly paid off, as she is now ranked 4th in the world in the women’s under-57kg division.
39. Tom Greenway
Tom Greenway was a Canadian judoka who achieved success on a national and international level. He made his first international appearance at the 1976 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the men’s heavyweight event.
Ten years later, Greenway returned to the international stage by winning the bronze medal in the 95kg weight category at the judo demonstration sport event as part of the 1986 Commonwealth Games.
This achievement showed that Greenway’s skill and dedication had been consistent and unwavering for many years. He remains an inspiration to the judo community in Canada and around the world.
40. Alan Sakai
Alan Sakai is a Canadian athlete who specializes in the sport of judo. He is best known for his performance in the 1972 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the men’s lightweight event.
Sakai was one of the most promising judokas in the world at that time and his performance in the Olympics was highly anticipated. During the competition, Sakai gave it his all and displayed his incredible skills in the sport.
He was able to reach the quarter-finals but was eventually defeated by a German opponent.
Despite the loss, Sakai was still able to make a name for himself and was recognized for his hard work and dedication. Sakai’s career post-Olympics was also successful, as he went on to become the Canadian National Judo Champion in 1973.
He also competed in several international tournaments, winning a number of medals. He has been inducted into the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame and is remembered for his impressive performance in the 1972 Olympics.
41. Joe Meli
Joe Meli is a remarkable athlete, who has accomplished much in the sport of judo. He is a retired judoka from Canada and represented his country in three Summer Olympics, 1976, 1984 and 1988.
At the 1979 Pan American Games, he won the bronze medal in the men’s open class division.
This achievement is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. Joe Meli has had a successful career in judo, representing Canada in three Summer Olympics and winning a bronze medal at the 1979 Pan American Games.
He has shown excellence in judo, and his success is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
His dedication to judo has earned him a place in the Canadian judo history books. Joe Meli is an inspirational athlete who continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence. He is a great example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
His success is a reminder that anything is possible, and no matter what the odds are, with the right attitude and determination, success can be achieved.
42. Amy Cotton
Amy Cotton is a highly decorated judoka from Canada. She has competed in both the 2003 Pan American Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and the 2004 and 2012 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece and London, United Kingdom, respectively.
At the 2003 Pan American Games, Cotton won the bronze medal in the women’s half-heavyweight division. This was a great accomplishment for Cotton and for Canada.
She followed up this success by representing Canada at the 2004 and 2012 Summer Olympics, further showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Cotton has become an inspirational figure in Canada, and her commitment to the sport has not gone unrecognized.
43. Pier Morten
Pier Morten is an incredible athlete, having achieved a remarkable feat as the world’s first deaf-blind black belt in Judo. He is a Canadian judoka and wrestler who has made a name for himself in the world of sports.
Morten’s career is marked by his participation in seven Paralympic Games, four in Judo and three in Wrestling.
His commitment to excellence was further recognized when he was selected to serve as Canada’s flag-bearer for the closing ceremony at the 2000 Paralympics. Morten has shown that no physical disability can prevent someone from accomplishing great things.
He has demonstrated that with enough effort and dedication, people can overcome any obstacle. Morten’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit. His accomplishments have been an invaluable source of motivation for disabled athletes everywhere.
Conclusion
Canada has a proud tradition of producing some of the world’s finest judo players. Canada has produced Olympic medalists and multiple world champions in the sport.
The training and dedication of these athletes has enabled Canada to remain one of the top countries in the world for judo. Canada has an excellent track record of producing world-class judo players and will continue to be a contender in the world of judo.
