A news story that has caused much discussion among my friends and I.
US Federal District Court Judge Robert Lasnik in Washington ruled in favor of US Judo in the costly bowing lawsuit that has been pending for 4 years. Three previous arbitration panels also ruled in favor of US Judo. The judge decided that the Judo competition requirement to bow to the mat area is not discriminatory or a violation of civil rights as claimed by the plaintiff in James Akiyama, et al vs USJI, et al. John Holm, who brought the lawsuit on behalf of his stepchildren, stated that he still believes that bowing to the competition area forces Shintoism on competitors. Of course, the custom of bowing in Judo in meant as a sign of respect, and not a religious act. According to the International Judo Federation, "A part of the etiquette of Judo, the rei, is a tradition which reflects the respect and discipline that permeates the unique activities of our sport."
" The most certain way to assure total victory is to understand that anything less, is a defeat."
