Bangladesh concluded a remarkable campaign at the 8th NEKOS International Judo Championship in Kathmandu, Nepal, finishing as runners-up in the junior category with a haul of four gold medals and one bronze, highlighting the nation’s growing strength in the sport.
The championship’s final day proved decisive for the Bangladeshi team. At the Multipurpose Martial Arts Centre in Kathmandu’s Naya Bazar, Fabiha Bushra dominated the +70kg girls’ category, claiming the top podium spot with authority. In the same session, Shahin Ahmed showcased his prowess in the men’s -73kg event, adding another gold to Bangladesh’s impressive tally.
Earlier in the tournament, on the second day, Bangladesh had already made a strong impression. Aziza Aleya Lyon secured gold in the girls’ under-18 cadet +53kg category, while Usaching Marma Bijoy triumphed in the boys’ cadet +62kg division. Meanwhile, Remi Hasi earned a bronze medal in the girls’ -45kg event, contributing to the overall success of the team.
Bangladesh Medal Tally
| Athlete Name | Category/Weight Class | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| Fabiha Bushra | Junior +70kg (Girls) | Gold |
| Shahin Ahmed | Junior -73kg (Boys) | Gold |
| Aziza Aleya Lyon | Cadet U18 +53kg (Girls) | Gold |
| Usaching Marma Bijoy | Cadet U18 +62kg (Boys) | Gold |
| Remi Hasi | Cadet U18 -45kg (Girls) | Bronze |
Fabiha Bushra’s performance was particularly remarkable. She defeated her semifinal opponent in just four seconds and secured victory in the final within thirty seconds, earning the prestigious Best Player of the Tournament award in the junior category. Her dominance on the tatami not only inspired her teammates but also drew international recognition to Bangladesh’s judo programme.
The championship was organised under the Nepal Judo Federation, affiliated with the Nepal Sports Federation, and brought together approximately 300 judokas from 15 local Nepalese clubs, as well as teams from Bangladesh and Bhutan. Bangladesh was represented by three boys and three girls, all trained at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), underscoring the institution’s pivotal role in developing the country’s young sporting talent.
The Bangladeshi contingent was managed by Dr. Lutfur Rahman, coached by Md. Abu Bakar Siddiq, and accompanied by Al-Amin, Mymensingh District Sports Officer, who served as the team official. Their coordinated efforts were critical to the team’s success, demonstrating the importance of strong leadership and preparation in international competitions.
Bangladesh’s outstanding performance in Kathmandu underscores the nation’s rising stature in junior judo. With Fabiha Bushra’s commanding victories and the team’s consistent medal-winning performances, the country is signalling the emergence of promising new talent on the international judo stage, setting a strong foundation for future tournaments.