Hosts wanted for judo Tokyo 2020 qualifiers

"All of the events will be hugely significant, with athletes able to gain qualification points for the most important competition on the calendar."

The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Judo Committee has launched a search for hosts for Grand Prix and regional Championships in the build-up to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

With the qualifying period for the next Paralympics beginning on 1 September 2018, organisers have the chance to stage two Grand Prix and Asia-Oceania, Pan-American, African and European Championships in the next two years.

IBSA President Jannie Hammershoi said: “We are looking forward with great anticipation to the road to Tokyo 2020. All of the events will be hugely significant, with athletes able to gain qualification points for the most important competition on the calendar.

“We can expect some incredible performances from the judokas as they work towards their ultimate goal, and seek coveted regional medals and Grand Prix podiums.”

The first event on offer is an IBSA Judo Grand Prix in December 2018. This will come directly after the 2018 World Championships being held in Lisbon, Portugal, from 16-18 November.

Hosts are then needed for a further Grand Prix in March 2020.

Regional Championships are scheduled for 2019.

List of competitions open for bid:

• IBSA Judo Grand Prix, December 2018

• IBSA Judo Grand Prix, March 2020

• 2019 IBSA Judo Asia and Oceania Championships

• 2019 IBSA Judo Pan-American Championships

• 2019 IBSA Judo European Championships

• 2019 IBSA Judo African Championships

The deadline for applications is 15 June. More information on how to apply is available on IBSA’s website.