Contest Rules Of The British Judo Council - March 2008

These rules are dedicated to MASUTARO OTANI
A Judo Master and Gentleman.

These rules have been compiled for the British Judo Council Members with the following
reservations in mind.

Contest is a valid part of Judo and can be invaluable for the progress of a student.
Therefore it follows that rules are necessary. However I would remind B.J.C. members
that Contest is not only an area in which persons can effectively demonstrate skills they
have acquired; it is also an area in which they can develop and extend their skills.
Regardless of how other associations may interpret their rules, I insist that these rules
must be used to complement our methods of Judo, and not as a basis around which
tactical techniques can be developed within the boundaries of these rules purely for the
sake of winning competitions.

May I also remind you that, whilst it is my full intention to train and qualify Referees to a
high standard, a Referee can only make decisions based on knowledge (however limited)
of the rules and on the comprehension of the true spirit of the sport. Therefore, I shall not
entertain public criticism or argument with the Referee, regardless of what these or any
other rules may stipulate. A competing Contestant has the sole responsibility to appeal
against any unfair judgement he or she may feel has been made. However any sign of
dissent from him or her or any external person shall in itself be enough for the Referee to
totally disregard his or her appeal. In the case of junior competition, provision should be
made for a responsible adult, representing a junior, to have access to a named official.
In short, once a Contestant has entered into a Contest the decision of the Referee, right
or wrong, fair or unfair, biased or not, that decision is absolutely final. These rules are not
devised for Contestants, or indeed any other person, to use in any way that is contrary to
the spirit of Judo. They are merely a perimeter within which our members can Contest
freely with an attitude true to the BJC aims and objectives of promoting traditional judo
values.

The National Technical Committee may modify or include additional contest rules at any
time. The Contest Rules are altered to reflect current BJC health and safety policy, Child
Awareness and the BJC Aims and Objectives to primarily promote ‘BJC Ippon Judo’.
The BJC does make careful consideration of all changes made to the Contest Rules
R. Otani


1. COMPETITION FACILITIES
1.1 COMPETITION AREA
The COMPETITION AREA shall be divided into two separate zones or areas. The
demarcation between these two zones or areas shall be called the DANGER ZONE
and shall be indicated by a Red Area 1 metre wide forming part of the CONTEST
AREA parallel to the four sides of the COMPETITION AREA.
The area within and including the DANGER ZONE shall be called the CONTEST
AREA and should be a minimum of 8 metres x 8 metres and a maximum of 10
metres x 10 metres. The area or zone outside of the DANGER ZONE shall be
called the SAFETY AREA and should be a minimum of 2 metres wide on all four
sides of the CONTEST AREA.
The CONTEST and SAFETY AREA shall be clean, free of tears, gaps or rents, and
should be mounted on a resilient surface.
For Junior competitions the CONTEST and SAFETY AREA may be smaller than for
Senior Competitions, but the SAFETY AREA should be maintained at 2 metres wide
on all four sides and should be clearly marked.
The COMPETITION AREA may be mounted upon a resilient structure or a sprung
floor construction.
1.2 COMPETITION AREAS OTHER THAN PRESCRIBED
Where the use of coloured TATAMI is not possible, the dimensions shall be as near
as possible as detailed previously, with the DANGER ZONE clearly marked with a
continuous line of adhesive tape upon the surface, denoting the inner and outer
perimeters.
1.3 CONTEST AREA MARKINGS
The starting position of each Contestant shall be marked with a section of red or
white adhesive tape 25 cm long and 6 cm wide being affixed to the TATAMI in a
central position at a distance of 4 metres apart or pro-rata to the amount of
COMPETITION AREA provided.
The red tape is to the right hand side of the Referee (facing the table); the white
tape is to the left hand side of the Referee.
1.4 COMPETITION AREA EQUIPMENT
The CONTEST AREA shall be furnished with: -
i. One large table placed outside the SAFETY AREA perimeter
ii. Six chairs, four at the table and two situated diagonally opposite each other
outside the DANGER ZONE upon the SAFETY AREA
iii. Two scoreboards, one red and one white which indicate the scores and/or
penalties horizontally. They shall be positioned on the Recorder’s table so
the referee, officials and spectators can easily see them
iv. One audible signalling device placed upon the table
v. One blue flag or signal placed upon the table for indicating OSAEKOMI.
vi. One yellow flag or signal placed upon the table for indicating MATTE.
vii. One green flag or signal placed upon the table for indicating First Aid In
Attendance.
viii. Three timing devices each capable of starting, stopping and resetting lapsed
times.
ix. One red flag or signal placed within reach of each Corner Judge. One white
flag or signal placed within reach of each Corner Judge.
Manual Score Boards (Referee’s View).
0 0 0 0 0 0
Koka
Yuko
Waza-Ari
Koka
Yuko
Waza-
Ari
Shido 1 Shido 2 Shido 3 Shido 1 Shido 2 Shido 3
Electronic Scoreboards.
These are available and will be used at some competitions. They automatically
adjust and register the appropriate positive scores on the awarding of a penalty of a
Shido.
2. C0NTESTANT’S UNIFORM
2.1 JUDOGI
The Judogi shall be made of strong material and be complete without tears or
blemishes and must not be of an excessively stiff construction especially the lapels.
The Judogi shall be white, off-white and not starched.
The Judogi shall be clean, reasonably dry and odour free.
The wearing of blue Judogi, whether as a single colour or a reversible white and
blue, is not allowed at any BJC Competition, Grading or Course.
2.2 TROUSERS
The trousers, free of any marking save as prescribed shall be loose with an opening
play of 10 to 15 cm between the bottom of the trousers and the leg including any
bandage or shin pad.
The trousers shall reach more than halfway down the calf to a minimum of 5 cm
above the anklebone, but not so far as to cover the anklebone.
The use of tailored trousers is not allowed, nor is any part of the trouser to be tight
to the skin on any part of the anatomy save that of the waistband.
2.3 JACKET
The jacket shall be long enough to cover the thighs when tied at the waist by a belt,
and the skirt shall, at a minimum, reach to the fists when the arms are fully
extended downward at the side of the body. The body of the jacket must be wide
enough to cross over at the level of the lower rib cage and have a minimum overlap
of 25 cm at this point.
The sleeves shall be loose with an opening play of 5 – 8 cm including any bandage,
along the entire length of the sleeve.
The jacket sleeves shall extend more than halfway down the forearms but shall not
extend further than the wrist joint.
The use of tailored jackets is prohibited; additionally, the material must not be thick,
hard or slippery, or the lapels excessively thick so as to prevent the opponent from
taking a grip
2.4 BELT OR OBI
The BELT or OBI must be tied properly with a square reef knot tight enough to
prevent the jacket from coming loose and must be long enough to go twice round
the body with ends left free with at least 20 cm, but not more than 30 cm, from the
knot on each side when tied.
The Contestants shall wear an identifying, or further belt of red or white in colour
and may, if required, remove their belt of grade.
2.5 FOOTWEAR
For the competitor, only Zori or light flip-flop type sandals must be worn to the side
of the mat. All other form of footwear is forbidden.
2.6 BADGES, INSIGNIA, OR NAMES UPON THE JUDOGI
A manufacturer’s logo is permitted, but must not exceed 7 cm in height or 4 cm in
width, and shall be worn on the edge of the lower right corner of the left front skirt of
the jacket.
On the left breast of the Judogi jacket, Contestants are permitted to wear one
‘recognised’ International Badge of the British Judo Council or the British Judo
Association. No other badge, embroidery or design is allowed in this position.
Maximum size is 10cm wide by 6 cm high, located approximately with a 9 cm gap
from the lapel edge and the top of the badge level with the armpit.
Only two badges or insignia of any description are allowed upon the jacket. These
shall be below the belt on the front facing skirt of the left-hand side of the jacket. No
badge or insignia shall measure greater than 9 cm in diameter or greater than 9 cm
x 9 cm square.
8 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
In addition, one manufacturer’s insignia or ‘flash’ shall be permitted on the sleeve(s)
of the Judogi jacket above the elbow, and shall not measure greater than10 cm x 10
cm.
The name of the Judogi owner may also appear on the jacket and must not be
greater than 20 cm in length nor 3 cm in height and be positioned upon the bottom
front-facing skirt of the left-hand side of the jacket.
The name of the Judogi owner may appear on the trouser, and shall be positioned
adjacent to the waistband of the trouser, and must not exceed 20 cm in length or 3
cm in height.
No other form of adornment is permitted including shoulder flashes and/or
embroidery.
2.7 MALE JUDOKA
Track tops, sweatshirts etc. must be removed before male Judoka compete.
2.8 FEMALE JUDOKA
Only Female Judoka shall be allowed to wear a strong, white, short-sleeved ‘T’ shirt
under the Judogi jacket. It shall be free of any insignia, logo or motif and shall be
long enough to be contained within the Judogi trousers.
The wearing of a leotard is not permitted.
Track tops, sweatshirts etc. must be removed before female Judoka compete.
3. HYGIENE
3.1 JUDOGI
Shall be clean, dry, and free of rents, tears, odour and starch.
The Belt of grade must be clean, in good repair without frayed ends or edges.
3.2 PERSONAL
i. Hands and feet shall be clean. Nails on both feet and hands shall be cut
short
ii. Long hair must be tied back with such apparatus that shall not cause injury to
an opponent
iii. The chewing of gum or any other confectionery item is not allowed
iv. The consumption of any form of liquid is prohibited whilst competitors are
awaiting Contest, save that provided by the organiser
v. Any item that shall pierce the body in any position shall be removed, and no
substitute will be allowed to protect the puncture through the skin
vi. Rings, earrings or studs of any description must be removed. It is not
permissible to tape over such items
vii. The use of shin guard(s) that contain metal or bone within their content, or
are of excessively hard construction, are not allowed and cannot cover any
part of the foot or instep below the ankle
viii. Shin guards that have elastic bands encircling the foot will only be allowed
if the elastic is wide enough and tight enough not to be deemed a danger to
either Contestant.
4. INFRINGEMENTS OF REFERENCES 2 & 3
If, in the opinion of the Referee, a Contestant’s uniform, appearance or standard of hygiene
does not fall within the stated parameters, the Contestant shall be invited to change or correct
the situation in the shortest possible time. If a Contestant fails to meet the standard required,
they will be refused the right to compete and the opponent declared the winner by KIKEN
GACHI.
5. UNIFORM FOR OFFICIALS
5.1 MALE REFEREE
Shall be attired in the regulation uniform of: navy blue blazer with official BJC
badge, white shirt with official blue BJC tie tied at the neck with shirt collar fastened,
grey trousers, grey socks and black shoes.
5.2 FEMALE REFEREE
Shall be attired in the regulation uniform of: navy blue blazer with official BJC
badge, white shirt with official BJC blue tie tied at the neck with shirt collar fastened
or white blouse with official BJC cravat tied or fastened, grey skirt, slacks or culottes
and black shoes.
5.3 MALE TABLE OFFICIAL
Shall be attired in the regulation uniform of: navy blue blazer or navy blue V-neck
sweater, white shirt with official blue BJC tie tied at the neck with shirt collar
fastened, grey trousers, grey socks and black shoes.
5.4 FEMALE TABLE OFFICIAL
Shall be attired in the regulation uniform of: navy blue blazer or navy blue V-neck
sweater or cardigan, white shirt with official blue BJC tie tied at the neck with shirt
collar fastened, or with white blouse and official BJC cravat tied or fastened, grey
skirt, slacks or culottes and black shoes.
6. STARTING PROCEDURE
6.1 COMPETITORS INSPECTION
All competitors presenting themselves on the TATAMI for check-in and/or inspection
shall be correctly attired. Removal of the Judogi whilst between or awaiting Contest
is not permitted.
All competitors shall be requested to enter the CONTEST AREA and stand in line
along the DANGER ZONE for inspection to ensure they comply with the regulations.
6.2 PERFORMANCE OF STANDING REI
The Referees shall stand in line opposite the Competitors.
A Referee shall call “SHIMPAN-NI-REI” whereupon all competitors shall bow to the
Referees who shall at the same time return the salutation. When the REI is
completed, the central Referee takes one pace backward, the two other Referees
shall turn inward at 90 degrees so that they face each other, and all three shall
simultaneously bow to each other.
The Competitors shall be requested to leave the CONTEST AREA and retire to a
provided position to await the call for their Contest. The Mat Officials shall then
move to their respective positions, Corner Judges by walking around the SAFETY
AREA perimeter, with the Referee remaining within the CONTEST AREA until the
two Corner Judges are seated, when Contest may begin.
6.3 ENTERING THE CONTEST AREA
i. THE REFEREE AND CORNER JUDGES
(a). The Referees shall approach the perimeter, of the CONTEST AREA and
proceed to a point central and opposite the Timekeepers and Recorders table,
whereupon they perform the standing REI toward JOSEKI
(b). They shall then come forward to the DANGER ZONE, REI again toward the
Recorder’s table and then once more to each other, following which they
continue toward their respective start positions. This procedure shall be
reversed when leaving the CONTEST AREA
(c). Should a Referee or Corner Judge have occasion to leave or re-enter the
CONTEST AREA, they shall do so by walking around the inner perimeter of
ii. THE CONTESTANTS
Each Contestant shall enter the CONTEST AREA by walking around the inner
perimeter of the SAFETY AREA until reaching a position opposite each other and
level with their respective starting position. The Contestant wearing the red belt
shall walk to the designated red side, and the Contestant with the white belt shall
walk to the designated white side. They shall execute the standing REI before
entering the CONTEST AREA to take up their respective positions
iii. CHANGE OVER OF REFEREES
The Referee leaving the CONTEST AREA shall approach the relevant Corner
Judge and each in standing positions, shall REI and exchange places. The Corner
Judge taking over from the Referee shall walk to a position central to and opposite
the Table Officials in readiness for the next Contest.
7. CONTEST STARTING PROCEDURE
Competitors, invited by the Referee to take up their position within the CONTEST AREA, shall
do so as prescribed in section 6.3 ii. On taking up their respective starting position they will
await the instruction of the Referee.
The Referee shall then issue the command “HAJIME” whereupon the Competitors REI and
advance one pace forward, left foot first, indicating they are ready to commence.
Should either of the Contestants fail to REI, the Referee shall immediately call “MATTE”, give
the command “REI” followed by “HAJIME”.
8. CONTEST ENDING PROCEDURE
8.1 ENDING A CONTEST
On expiration of Contest time the Referee shall announce “SORE-MADE” (That is
all), and the Contestants shall return to their starting position.
8.2 ADJUSTMENT OF GI
If necessary, the Referee will instruct the Contestants to adjust their Judogi.
8.3 TRANSFER OF SCORES
At the end of a Contest, should a Competitor have incurred penalty scores, the
Referee shall instruct the scoreboard operator to remove them and transfer them as
a positive score to the other Contestant. (When Electronic scoring is operative when
these actions are automatic).
8.4 CONTEST RESULT
The Referee shall announce the result of the Contest and indicate which Competitor
has won by stepping forward, left foot first, raising an arm at an upward incline in
the direction of the successful Competitor, and announce the result. The Referee
shall then return to the original position, right foot first.
8.5 CONTESTANT’S EXIT
Following the announcement of the result both Competitors shall take one pace
back, right foot first, REI, turn and exit the CONTEST AREA by the same route as
having entered.
9. CONTEST TIME
9.1 PERMISSIBLE TIME
The time allocated for each Contest shall be decided prior to the commencement of
the competition. In general, the maximum time limits shall be as follows; however,
these may be altered at the discretion of the organisers.
i. Juniors, Primaries, Male and Female 2 minutes duration
Espoir, Senior Male and Female 3 minutes duration
Dan Grades Female 4 minutes duration
Dan Grades Male 5 minutes duration
ii. The time for each Contest is the time allocated. Stoppages, i.e. MATTE or
SONO-MAMA, do not form part of actual Contest time
iii. When the Contestants are in NE-WAZA with OSAEKOMI having been called
and the expiry of time is also announced, the Contest shall continue until either
IPPON or TOKETA (hold broken) is announced, at which point the Contest shall
be deemed to have finished.
9.2 TIME OUT DESCRIPTIONS
Whilst a Contest is in progress the Referee may call TIME OUT for MATTE or
SONO-MAMA as detailed below:
i. “MATTE” shall be called to halt a Contest at the discretion of the Referee. The
Contest Timekeeper shall immediately stop the timing device, and a yellow flag
or baton shall be displayed, indicating that timing has been halted. Should the
Referee decide that the attendance of First Aid or, Doctor is required, then a
green flag or baton shall be displayed and the yellow flag or baton removed
ii. When the verbal instruction “MATTE” is issued, the Referee shall extend an arm
at shoulder height toward the table with the palm facing the table. The signal is
removed when the Referee is satisfied that the command has been
acknowledged
iii. The Referee shall call “SONO-MAMA” when the Contestants are in groundwork
and judgement is required of a possible infringement, or an adjustment to a
Contestant’s Judogi
iv. When the verbal instruction “SONO-MAMA” is announced, the Referee shall
place one hand on one Contestant, the other hand on the other Contestant and
ensure the command has been noted by the Table Officials by raising the yellow
signal.
9.3 EXPIRY OF TIME
When the allotted time for a Contest has expired the Timekeeper shall inform the
Referee by such audible means as previously agreed. The Referee shall
immediately announce, “SORE-MADE” (That is all) and the Contestants shall return
to their starting positions.
9.4 EXPIRY OF TIME DURING OSAEKOMI
When the Contest time expires while the Contestants are in NE-WAZA
(Groundwork) and OSAEKOMI having been called, the Timekeeper shall call out
the termination of allocated Contest time; but the Contest time shall be extended
until either IPPON is awarded or the OSAEKOMI is declared “TOKETA” (Broken).
10. LOCATIONS AND VALIDITY OF TECHNIQUES
10.1 VALIDITY OF TECHNIQUE APPLIED AT END OF CONTEST TIME
Any Technique applied simultaneously or just prior to the expiry of Contest time
shall be judged as valid.
12 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
In the case of OSAEKOMI being announced prior to, or at the same time as, the
expiry of time, the Contest time shall be extended to allow OSAEKOMI to be
completed or until “OSAEKOMI TOKETA” is called.
10.2 INVALID TECHNIQUE
Any technique applied when one or both Contestants are outside of the DANGER
ZONE shall be judged as null and void. Therefore if a Contestant has a foot, hand
or knee in contact with the SAFETY AREA during NAGE-WAZA, or more than half
of their body outside the DANGER ZONE whilst attempting the application of
SUTEMI-WAZA, that Contestant shall be judged to be outside of the CONTEST
AREA.
10.3 JUDGEMENT OF NAGE-WAZA BEING OUT OF THE AREA
For a throwing technique to be valid when the person thrown lands outside the
CONTEST AREA, the Contestant executing the throw must not make contact with
any part of the area outside of the CONTEST AREA before the thrown person
lands.
If the person executing the throw makes contact with the SAFETY AREA outside of
the CONTEST AREA after the landing of the person being thrown, then the
technique shall be judged as valid.
10.4 JUDGEMENT OF NE-WAZA BEING OUT OF THE AREA
For NE-WAZA or OSAEKOMI to continue, a body part of either Contestant must
maintain contact with the CONTEST AREA.
If a sole body part having contact with the CONTEST AREA becomes airborne then
the Contestants are judged as being out of the CONTEST AREA and “MATTE” is
called.
10.5 INSUFFICIENT SAFETY AREA
Where insufficient SAFETY AREA is provided to the COMPETITION AREA and
where the SAFETY AREA does not fully comply with the requirements laid down
and the Referee, having announced “OSAEKOMI”, judges the Contestants to be
moving to the perimeter of the CONTEST AREA in a manner to cause concern,
then the Referee may move the Contestants back into a central position of the
CONTEST AREA as follows:
The Referee shall announce “SONO-MAMA” whereupon both Contestants shall
freeze their actions. With assistance, the Referee shall then move both Contestants
into a central position.
On being satisfied that both Contestants have maintained the same physical
contact, as when “SONO-MAMA” was called and they are ready to continue, the
Referee shall firmly place a hand on each Contestant, announce “YOSHI” (Begin
Again) and simultaneously remove both hands from the Contestants.
10.6 BRITISH JUDO COUNCIL AREA PROVISION
In all BRITISH JUDO COUNCIL National Events the full CONTEST, DANGER and
SAFETY AREA must, wherever possible, be provided, and Rule 10.5 will not apply.
In an event where the provision of a full SAFETY AREA is not met, Rule 10.5 must
be applied.
11. CONTINUATION FROM NAGE-WAZA TO NE-WAZA
11.1 ALLOWABLE CONTINUATION
In the following circumstances a Contestant may move from NAGE-WAZA into NEWAZA.
i. When a Contestant, after obtaining a positive result with NAGE-WAZA,
moves into NE-WAZA without interruption and takes the offensive
ii. When a Contestant falls while applying a throwing technique or when a
Contestant takes the offensive when the Opponent falls down
13 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
iii. When a Contestant after obtaining a positive result from techniques as a
result of SHIME-WAZA or KANSETSU-WAZA, moves into NE-WAZA without
interruption and takes the offensive
iv. When one Contestant falls or is about to fall in a situation not covered by
11.1. ii. The other Contestant may take advantage and move into NE-WAZA
v. If in the opinion of the Referee and/or Corner Judges, a Contestant does not
apply NE-WAZA as a continuation of NAGE-WAZA, the Referee shall call the
Contestants to a halt by announcing “MATTE”.
12. REFEREE RESPONSIBILITIES
12.1 POSITIONS AND DECISION RESPONSIBILITY
The Referee shall stay generally within the CONTEST AREA. He shall conduct the
Contest, administer any judgement, and ensure that the decisions are recorded
correctly.
Wherever possible, the Referee shall be qualified under the current BRITISH JUDO
COUNCIL refereeing structure, and shall always be in possession of a valid current
Referee’s Qualification
12.2 NUMBER OF OFFICIALS
As a rule, there shall be one Referee and two Corner Judges. However, dependant
upon the scope and nature of the Competition, there may be only one Referee. It is
permissible for two Referees to alternate duties, but under no circumstance should
one Referee and one Corner Judge officiate jointly.
12.3 CORNER JUDGE’S ROLE
The Corner Judges shall assist the Referee. The two Judges shall take positions at
opposite corners outside of the CONTEST AREA and shall not encroach upon the
CONTEST AREA, unless requested to do so by the Referee.
Corner Judges must ensure that the Recorder records all scores and penalties
awarded by the Referee correctly on the Score Boards.
13. JUDGEMENT
13.1 WIN BY IPPON
If the Referee shall judge that a Contestant has won a Contest with either NAGEWAZA
or NE-WAZA, he shall immediately announce “IPPON” (10 points), stop the
Contest, and return the Contestants to their start positions.
The Referee shall then indicate the winner by taking one pace forward, left foot first.
The Referee shall raise an arm (either left for white or right for red) inclined upward
at 45 degrees, palm uppermost, and announce “IPPON”.
Once the signal has been made, the Referee brings the arm back to the side and
returns one pace back, right foot first.
13.2 WIN BY WAZA-ARI-AWASETE-IPPON
If the Referee judges that a Contestant has scored two WAZA-ARI he shall
announce “WAZA-ARI-AWASETE-IPPON” (10 points with two Techniques), stop
the Contest and return the Contestants to their start positions.
The Referee shall then indicate the winner by taking one pace forward, left foot first.
The Referee shall raise the arm (either left for white or right for red) inclined upward
at an angle of 45 degrees, palm uppermost and announce “WAZA-ARI-AWASETEIPPON”.
Once the signal has been made, the Referee brings the arm back to the
side and returns one pace back, right foot first.
13.3 WIN BY SOGO-GACHI
Where a Contestant has scored a WAZA-ARI and the Opponent is penalized with a
3 Shido (or vice-versa), the Referee shall stop the Contest and return the
Contestants to their start positions.
The Referee shall indicate the winner by taking one pace forward, left foot first.
The Referee shall raise the arm (either left for white or right for red) inclined upward
at an angle of 45 degrees, palm uppermost and then announce “SOGO-GACHI”
(Compound win 10 points).
Once the signal has been made, the Referee brings the arm back to the side and
returns one pace back, right foot first.
13.4 WIN BY YUSEI-GACHI
At the end of Contest time the Referee shall announce “SORE-MADE” and the
Contestant with the highest score shall be judged the winner.
The Referee shall then indicate the winner by taking one pace forward, left foot first.
The Referee shall raise the arm (either left for white or right for red) inclined upward
at an angle of 45 degrees, palm uppermost, and announce “YUSEI GACHI”. Once
the signal has been made, the Referee brings the arm back to the side, and returns
one pace back, right foot first.
13.5 OSAEKOMI
“OSAEKOMI” shall be called when a Contestant is controlling the Opponent by
holding them largely on their back with one or both shoulders towards the TATAMI.
The Contestant applying the hold may be positioned at the side, on top, or to the
rear (with the back toward) of the person being held.
The person being held may invalidate OSAEKOMI with one leg from underneath
with or without the other leg encircling from the top, at which point the Referee shall
announce “OSAEKOMI TOKETA”.
If a Hold Down is broken by entanglement escape or otherwise before 30 seconds
has elapsed, the Referee shall seek the exact time of the Hold Down from the
Timekeeper at a convenient moment and award the appropriate score.
13.6 WIN BY OSAEKOMI-WAZA
When the Referee judges that the Opponent with OSAEKOMI-WAZA is controlling a
Contestant the Referee shall announce “OSAEKOMI” (Holding Technique). Upon
indication from the Hold-Down Timekeeper that 30 seconds has elapsed from the
start of the OSAEKOMI, the Referee shall call “IPPON”, and return the Contestants
to their starting position.
The Referee shall then indicate the winner by taking one pace forward, left foot first.
The Referee shall raise the arm (either left for white or right for red) inclined upward
at 45 degrees, palm uppermost, and announce “IPPON”.
Once the signal has been made, the Referee brings the arm back to the side, and
returns one pace back, right foot first.
13.7 SIMULTANEOUS IPPON
In a case when both Contestants score IPPON simultaneously the Referee shall
award HIKI-WAKE (Draw) and the Contestants invited to compete again
immediately. Should one Contestant decline to compete for whatever reason, the
other Contestant shall be declared the winner by KIKEN-GACHI.
13.8 COMPLAINT AGAINST A DECISION
All decisions of the Referees shall be accepted in good grace. It is not acceptable or
permissible for a Contestant to kneel, raise a hand to question a decision.
An appropriate person can make representation or inquiry to the Mat Marshall
where clarification of a judgement may be obtained (See Section 21).
Complaints not resolved can be notified to the BRITISH JUDO COUNCIL Head
Office for the attention of the Director of Referees.
15 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
13.9 CORNER JUDGES OPINION DURING CONTEST
i. A Corner Judge should indicate their opinion of a scoring technique, without
awaiting the opinion of the Referee. If Corner Judges hold a contrary opinion
to that of the Referee, they shall indicate in the appropriate manner. The
Referee may amend the decision and adopt the opinion of a Corner Judge
ii. If both Corner Judges hold a differing opinion to that of the Referee, then the
Referee must alter the opinion as prescribed in 13.10. The Referee shall
have the right to confer with the Corner Judges before the decision is
amended.
13.10 THE MAJORITY OF THREE
Decisions and judgements are made on the basis of the majority of three. However,
if at any time during Contests the Referee and Corner Judges hold differing
opinions as to the value of either a technical result or penalty the Referee shall
make the decision on the following basis:
i. Should both Corner Judges indicate a joint opinion at variance to that of the
Referee, the Referee must adopt the opinion of the Corner Judges
ii. Should the Referee indicate an opinion of a higher value than that of the
Corner Judges the Referee shall adjust the opinion to that of the Judge
indicating the higher value score
iii. Should the Referee indicate an opinion of a lower value than that of the
Corner Judges the Referee shall adjust the opinion to that of the Corner
Judge with the lowest value score
iv. Should one Corner Judge indicate an opinion of a higher value than the
Referee, and the other Corner Judge an opinion of a lower value than the
Referee, the Referee’s opinion shall be maintained
v. During a Contest should a Contestant commit a third minor infringement, the
Referee shall call “MATTE” and confer with the Corner Judges whether or
not to award a third Shido
vi. Should a Contestant commit a fourth minor infringement or a grave
infringement either of which would incur HANSOKU-MAKE, the Referee shall
call “MATTE” and confer with the Corner Judges before awarding the
penalty.
13.11 HANTEI
In the event that a Contest time elapses with no scores being recorded, or the
scores are equal, the Referee shall call “SORE-MADE” when the timing device is
sounded to end the Contest. The Referee shall return the Contestants to the start
position, and move to the Referee’s starting position.
The Referee shall raise an arm straight above the head, palm facing inward, and
call “HANTEI” (decision request).
On the call of “HANTEI” by the Referee, all three officials shall immediately indicate
their opinion as to the winning Contestant.
The Referee shall then look to the Corner Judges for confirmation of a decision.
If one Corner Judge is in agreement with the Referee, then the Contest should be
awarded to the Contestant with both votes. If both Corner Judges are at variance to
the Referee, then the Referee shall withdraw the upraised arm, and alter the
decision to that of the Corner Judges, in accordance with Section 13.10.
13.12 APPLICATION OF MATTE
In the following instances, the Referee shall announce “MATTE” (Wait) and halt the
Contest temporarily. To resume the Contest the Referee shall announce “HAJIME”
(Start or Go). The amount of time that a Contest is halted shall not count as part of
the Contest time. See Section 9.1. ii
i. When a Contestant goes out of, or is about to go out of, the CONTEST
AREA
ii. When a Contestant commits a prohibited act
iii. When a Contestant is injured, or an accident or difficulty occurs
iv. When a Contestant is required to adjust their Judogi
v. When in NE-WAZA the Referee is of the opinion that positive progression is
not achievable by either Contestant
vi. When in NE-WAZA a Contestant with the Opponent having a grip on the
Judogi, manages to rise to the feet with both hands clear of the TATAMI
(Note. Should a Contestant rise to a standing position whilst being subjected to a
SHIME-WAZA and TORI simultaneously rises, the Referee must be aware
that a ruse to nullify the SHIME-WAZA is not being employed).
vii. In instances other than those prescribed above, as and when deemed
necessary by the Referee.
13.13 DEFAULT OR WITHDRAWAL
If a Contestant does not appear for the Contest when called, then the Opponent
shall be awarded FUSEN-GACHI (win by default).
If a Contestant withdraws from a competition for any reason during a Contest, then
the Opponent shall be awarded KIKEN-GACHI (win by withdrawal).
13.14 HANSOKU-MAKE
HANSOKU-MAKE is given for violation of rules. (See Section 14.4).
HANSOKU-MAKE and a third SHIDO may only be given following consultation of
the Referee and Corner Judges subject to Section 13.10.
14. PROHIBITED ACTS
The partitioning of rule infringements into two divisions is intended to give an understanding of
the relative penalties awarded for the committing of Prohibited Acts.
Any Contestant shall be guilty of a VIOLATION OF THE RULES if they violate any of the
clauses contained within paragraphs14.1 to 14.4 inclusive and shall be liable to disciplinary
action by the Referee.
During Contest an accidental infringement of any of the following penalties may occur and the
Referee can use interpretation of intent before administering, or not, a penalty.
A verbal warning may be given in the first instance of a minor infringement but any
subsequent minor infringements must be penalized in the appropriate manner.
Before the awarding of a third Shido the Referee must consult with the Corner Judges and act
according to Section 13.10.
14.1 AWARD OF SHIDO
SHIDO is awarded against a Contestant for a minor infringement as follows:
i. If a Contestant avoids taking a hold in order to prevent action in a Contest
ii. If a Contestant adopts in standing position an excessively defensive posture
(generally more than 5 seconds)
iii. In a standing position to continually hold (without attacking)
(a) With one or both hands, the belt or bottom of the jacket of the Opponent.
(b) With both hands, the Opponent’s collar lapel or jacket on the same side
(c) With both hands, one sleeve of the Opponents jacket
iv. To continually hold the cuff or sleeve ends of an Opponent for defensive
purposes
v. To insert finger or fingers inside the sleeves or trousers of an Opponent
vi. To hold either of an Opponent’s cuffs or sleeves and twist the cuff or sleeve
to entrap the wrist in order to prevent an Opponent taking proper grip
vii. To interlock or intertwine the fingers of an Opponent
viii. For a Contestant to intentionally disarrange the Judogi, or to tie and untie the
belt or trousers without the permission of the Referee
ix. For a Contestant to encircle completely any part of an Opponent’s body with
their jacket or belt
x. To take or hold any part of an Opponent’s Judogi in the mouth
xi. To place a hand, foot, arm or leg directly on an Opponent’s face
xii. When in NAGE-WAZA to take hold of an Opponent’s foot, feet, leg, legs,
ankle or trousers with one or both hands without at the same time attempting
a throwing technique. (Taking more than two steps without effect would incur
a penalty)
xiii. For a Contestant, whilst lying on the back, to maintain a hold of the Opponent
with their legs around the neck and armpit of the Opponent, when the
Opponent succeeds in attaining the standing position
xiv. To hold the Opponent’s belt with an outstretched or stiff arm, so as to prevent
the Opponent attacking
xv. Any action, which in the opinion of the Referee is designed to give the
impression of an attack, but has no intent to throw the Opponent
(Note: - Officials need to be circumspect in the interpretation of a false
attack. For example, a feint used to create an opening should not
necessarily be penalized if the opening is not achieved. However, if a feint is
successively applied more than twice with no success, then the Referee can
construe that the action(s) are designed to give the impression of work-rate
and are not genuine attacks)
xvi. To stand with both feet completely within the DANGER ZONE for a period of
time (generally of 5 seconds or more), unless beginning an attack or
executing a counter attack
xvii. To apply squeezing scissors with the legs to the Opponent’s neck, trunk or
head
xviii. To kick a hand or arm of an Opponent with a knee or foot in order to facilitate
the release of a grip
xix. To place a foot or feet, leg or legs in an Opponent’s belt, collar or lapel
xx. To bend backwards an Opponent’s finger or fingers
xxi. To pull an Opponent down onto the TATAMI without technique in order to
commence NE-WAZA
xxii. To deliberately go outside of the CONTEST AREA, or to deliberately push
an Opponent outside of the CONTEST AREA meaninglessly
xxiii. In NAGE-WAZA to go outside of the CONTEST AREA whilst applying a
technique
xxiv. To apply any action deemed to be dangerous and a possible cause of injury
xxv. To apply or attempt to apply a technique whilst outside of the CONTEST
AREA
xxvi. To take any action, which in the opinion of the Referee is contrary to the
spirit of Judo.
14.2 AWARD OF HANSOKU-MAKE
HANSOKU-MAKE is awarded against a Contestant for a grave infringement of the
rules or, having already been penalized with three Shido commits a further violation
of the rules.
i. To apply any action deemed to be dangerous and a possible cause of injury
and in particular to the Opponent’s neck or spinal vertebrae
ii. To lift an Opponent from the TATAMI from the lying position, then drive,
drop or throw the Opponent back onto the TATAMI
iii. To sweep an Opponent’s supporting leg from the inside when the Opponent
is applying HARAI GOSHI or similar technique requiring one of the
Opponent’s legs to leave contact with the TATAMI
iv. To disregard the instructions of the Referee
v. To make unnecessary calls, remarks or gestures derogatory to the
Opponent or Referee during time on the COMPETITION AREA
vi. To drive or dive head-first onto the TATAMI by bending forward and
downward while performing, or attempting to perform, techniques such as
UCHI-MATA, HARAI-GOSHI etc. or to fall directly backward whilst
performing or attempting to perform techniques such whether standing or
kneeling on one or both knees
vii. To attack an Opponent with KANI-BASAMI or any other excluded technique
viii. To fall backwards with intent, when the other Contestant is clinging to the
back and when either Contestant has control of the other’s movements
ix. To wear any hard or metallic object (covered or not).
x. To attempt to throw an Opponent by winding a leg around an Opponent’s
leg. (KAWAZU-GAKE)
xi. To apply KANSETSU-WAZA to any other joint than the elbow
xii. To fall directly to the TATAMI or attempt a NAGE-WAZA whilst applying or
attempting to apply a SHIME-WAZA or KANSETSU-WAZA
xiii. To take any action which, in the opinion of the Referee, is contrary to the
spirit of Judo.
15. JUDGEMENT OF THE CONTEST
15.1 JUDGEMENT OF IPPON IN NAGE-WAZA
IPPON resulting from NAGE WAZA can only be awarded if the application of the
technique started from the standing position. When a Contestant applying a
technique or counter-technique throws their Opponent clearly and decisively:
i. Onto the back or side of back
ii. With control
iii. With sufficient force
iv. With speed.
If, after the throw is executed, the person who has been thrown forms a bridge or
arch with only the heels and head in contact with the TATAMI, the Referee may still
award IPPON, or any other score that is warranted, to strenuously discourage the
dangerous nature of this avoidance. (e.g. to frustrate the technique of TOME
NAGE).
15.2 IPPON FROM SHIME-WAZA OR KANSETSU-WAZA
IPPON resulting from SHIME-WAZA or KANSETSU-WAZA is awarded when the
disadvantaged Contestant taps the Opponent’s body, or the TATAMI, twice or more
with either a hand or foot, or makes a vocal submission (MAITTA).
(Referees must at all times position themselves so as to witness the application of
any KANSETSU-WAZA or SHIME-WAZA, and when the technique is seen to be
apparent shall award IPPON. This applies to both Senior and Junior competitions
see Section 20).
15.3 JUDGEMENT OF IPPON IN NE-WAZA
In OSAEKOMI-WAZA (Holding),
i. Where a Contestant is being held under control for a period of 30 seconds
and cannot break the hold or entangle the aggressor’s legs or trunk with
their own, IPPON shall be awarded
ii. When in a hold-down position, the disadvantaged Contestant submits by
tapping the Opponents’ body or TATAMI, twice or more with a hand or foot
or makes a vocal submission, IPPON shall be awarded
iii. In KANSETSU-WAZA or SHIME-WAZA, when the disadvantaged
Contestant taps the Opponents body, or TATAMI, twice or more with a hand
or makes a vocal submission, IPPON shall be awarded.
(Note: - Referees must at all times position themselves so as to witness the
application of any KANSETSU-WAZA or SHIME-WAZA, and when the technique is
seen to be apparent shall award IPPON. (This applies to both Senior and Junior
competitions. (See Section 20).
15.4 JUDGEMENT OF WAZA-ARI
i. In NAGE-WAZA when a Contestant throws an Opponent with control, but
partially lacking one of the four criteria required for IPPON, the Referee shall
award WAZA-ARI. Should a Contestant be awarded a second WAZA-ARI
during a Contest, WAZA-ARI-AWASETE-IPPON shall be awarded
ii. In OSAEKOMI-WAZA (Holding) when a Contestant is being held under
control for a period of 25 seconds or more, but less than 30 seconds. Should
a Contestant be awarded a second WAZA-ARI during a Contest, WAZA-ARIAWASETE-
IPPON shall be awarded.
15.5 JUDGEMENT OF YUKO
i. In NAGE-WAZA when a Contestant throws an Opponent with control which
partially lacks two of the four criteria necessary for a complete IPPON
ii. In OSAEKOMI-WAZA (Holding), where a Contestant is being held under
control for a period of 20 seconds or more, but for less than 25 seconds.
15.6 JUDGEMENT OF KOKA
i. In NAGE-WAZA when a Contestant throws an Opponent with control onto the
thigh(s) or buttocks with sufficient impetus and speed
ii. In OSAEKOMI-WAZA (Holding), where a Contestant is being held, under
control for a period of 10 seconds or more, but for less than 20 seconds.
15.7 ACCUMULATION OF SCORES
A Contestant having already been awarded a WAZA-ARI, whether in NAGE-WAZA
or NE-WAZA, is subsequently awarded a further WAZA-ARI then that Contestant
shall be judged as accumulating two significant scores to merit the award of WAZAARI-
AWASETE-IPPON (two techniques equalling IPPON).
Irrespective of the number of KOKA scored, they will never equal the score of
YUKO or WAZA-ARI.
Irrespective of the number of YUKO scored, they will never equal the score of
WAZA-ARI.
15.8 JUDGEMENT OF YUSEI-GACHI
YUSEI GACHI (Win by Superiority) shall be judged upon the following basis.
i. Where the Contestants have final equal scores, including all penalty scores
awarded, the Referee shall call for a HANTEI decision from the Corner
Judges and rule in accordance with Section 13.10. i to v. (1 point)
ii. Where there has been a score of KOKA (3 points) or a penalty of SHIDO
(minus 3 points)
iii. Where there has been a score of YUKO (5 points) or a second Shido penalty
(minus 5 points)
iv. Where there has been a score of WAZA-ARI (7 points) or a third Shido
penalty (minus 7 points)
v. Should a Referee not have the services of Corner Judges then he shall
immediately signal the decision as to the winner, by announcing “HANTEI”
and simultaneously raising the arm at 45 degrees palm upper most (left arm
for white right arm for red) in the direction of the winning Contestant, and
announce the result.
15.9 JUDGEMENT OF HIKI-WAKE
Shall be given in Team Contests only when no result or score is obtained within the
regulation time limit or when superiority of one Contestant over another cannot be
determined.
15.10 AWARDING OF PENALTY SCORES
In all instances, save in the case of SONO-MAMA during NE-WAZA, the
Contestants are returned to their starting position where the penalty is awarded
against the offending Contestant(s).
The Referee should by a simple action show the reason for awarding the penalty.
i. In NE-WAZA, to penalize the Contestant in the disadvantaged position, the
Referee shall announce “SONO-MAMA”, award the penalty, and restart the
Contest by announcing “YOSHI”
ii. To penalize the Contestant in the position of advantage the Referee shall call
“MATTE”, and return both Contestants to their starting positions. He shall then
award the appropriate penalty, plus any positive score obtained by the
offender. The Contest is then re-started with the command of “HAJIME”
iii. When in NE-WAZA, should “MATTE” be called in error then the Contestants
may be returned as near as possible to their respective positions at the time
of the call of “MATTE”, to the satisfaction and agreement of the Referee and
Corner Judges.
16. SUMMARY OF OSAEKOMI SCORING TIMES
Less than 10 seconds = NO SCORE
10 seconds to less than 20 seconds = KOKA (3 points)
20 seconds to less than 25 seconds = YUKO (5 points)
25 seconds to less than 30 seconds = WAZA-ARI (7 points)
30 seconds = IPPON (10 points)
21 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
17. MEDICAL ATTENTION
17.1 CAUSE OF INJURY, ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS
In the event that a Contestant cannot continue the Contest because of injury,
accident or illness, the Referee shall, after consultation with the Corner Judges,
judge the Contest on the basis of the following criteria:
i. If the cause of an injury is judged to be the fault of the injured person, then the
injured person shall lose the Contest
ii. If the Opponent of the injured Contestant is judged to be at fault, the
Opponent shall lose the Contest
iii. When the cause of an injury cannot be apportioned to either Contestant the
decision of HIKI-WAKE may be given. In individual events where a winner
must be determined the Contestant, unable to continue is judged the loser
iv. In the event of an accident occurring due to outside influence, the decision of
HIKI-WAKE shall be given
v. In general, where one Contestant is unable to continue due to illness, that
Contestant will be judged the loser.
vi. If an injury is caused by an illegal act and, following treatment, the injured
Contestant informs the Referee he is able to continue, after consultation with
the Corner Judges the Referee shall award an agreed penalty to the
Opponent
vii. On resumption of the Contest should the injured Contestant be unable to
continue due to the same previous injury, the Opponent cannot be further
penalised, therefore the injured person will lose the Contest.
17.2 MEDICAL ATTENTION ON THE CONTEST AREA
i. During a Contest each Contestant has a right to two medical examinations or
treatments on the mat, including asthmatic treatment (use of inhaler only).
Further treatments will result in KIKEN-GACHI
ii. Only one medical attendant should be allowed within the CONTEST AREA
unless it is decided that further attendants are required to assist with
diagnosis, or to aid with the removal of an injured Contestant
iii. Persons other than Contestants or Mat Officials are not allowed on the
COMPETITION AREA without permission of the Referee
iv. Should the Medical Attendant advise the Referee that the Contestant is not
able to continue the Contest, the Referee and Judges shall decide upon the
result of the Contest as section 17.1. (i to vii)
v. A maximum of five minutes injury time per Contestant, per Contest is allowed
thus; all medical treatments/attention are to be recorded.
17.3 MEDICAL ATTENTION AWAY FROM THE CONTEST AREA
i. Should an injury be such as to require a Contestant to leave the CONTEST
AREA, the injured Contestant may only do so with the Medical Attendant
ii. The amount of time that a Contestant is allowed from the CONTEST AREA
shall be counted as Injury Time, and the time noted against the time allowed
for that Contestant
iii. If the 5 minutes allowable recovery time elapses whilst the Contestant is away
from the CONTEST AREA, the Referee shall call the Contest to a halt and
make judgement as Section 17.1. (i to vii).
17.4 FREE MEDICAL ATTENTION
A free medical examination is permitted only when, in the opinion of the Referees,
the fault of the injury is attributed to the Opponent of the Contestant.
22 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
Free medical examination or treatment does not incur the application of Section
17.3.ii and iii.
During this examination the Medical Attendant may freely touch and examine the
injured person and, if required and necessary apply a bandage or assist in the
easing or adjusting of a scrotal injury.
18 SIGNALS
18.1 THE REFEREE
i. IPPON. The Referee shall raise one hand straight, directly upwards with the
palm facing forward and the fingers closed together
ii. FALSE ATTACK. Both hands extended forward with closed fists and then
make a downward motion with both hands
iii. Non-Combativity. Rotate, with a forward motion, the bent forearms at chest
height and then point with a forefinger at the Contestant. (Generally if there
has been no attacking action by either Contestant for approximately 25
seconds, then a condition of Non-Combativity exists provided that the Referee
is of the opinion that the Contestants are genuinely seeking an opportunity to
attack)
iv. SONO-MAMA. The Referee shall bend forward and touch both Contestants
with the palm of the hands.
v. YOSHI. The Referee shall touch firmly both Contestants with the palms of the
hands and exert pressure; on the call of “YOSHI” the Referee shall remove
both hands simultaneously from each Contestant
vi. To indicate the winner of a Contest by YUSEI-GACHI, KIKEN-GACHI,
FUSEN-GACHI or SOGO-GACHI, The Referee shall raise one arm at
shoulder height, palm facing inward towards the winner
vii. JUDOGI ADJUSTMENT. To instruct the Contestant(s) to adjust the Judogi,
The Referee crosses both hands, left over right at belt height with the palms
facing inwards
viii. AWARD A PENALTY. The Referee points towards the offending Contestant
with the index finger extended from a closed fist
ix. FREE TOUCH. For cases of minor incident such as nosebleed etc, The
Referee shall signal with one hand open, with palm facing upward towards the
injured Contestant
x. FREE EXAMINATION. The Referee shall extend both arms forward with the
hands open and palms facing upwards towards the injured Contestant
xi. RECORDING OF FREE EXAMINATION The Referee shall signal with one
hand open, fingers outstretched towards the injured Contestant. The other
hand is extended towards the Recorder with the index finger raised, this for
the first examination
xii. For the second examination the index finger and the middle finger are both
raised. When making these signals care should be taken that the palm side of
the hand is facing towards the Recorder
xiii. DANGER ZONE. The Referee shall with one hand point towards the
DANGER ZONE; the other should be raised above the head fingers open,
then point towards the offending Contestant and award the penalty.
(Note: - WAZA-ARI, YUKO and KOKA signals should start with the arm across the
chest, then sideways to the appropriate finishing position. The signal should be
held whilst a ninety degree turn is made the by the referee who should keep the
Contestants in constant view (Signals should be maintained for 3 to 5 seconds).
18.2 CORNER JUDGES
Additional to the appropriate signals the following are to be used by the Corner
Judges.
i. To indicate an opinion that a Contestant has stayed within the CONTEST
AREA, the Corner Judge will extend the relevant arm at shoulder height,
parallel to the TATAMI and pointing along the line of the CONTEST AREA,
with the palm facing into the CONTEST AREA, the fingers closed,
maintaining the arm in a fixed position.
ii. To indicate an opinion that a Contestant has moved out of the CONTEST
AREA, the Corner Judge will extend the relevant arm at shoulder height
parallel to the TATAMI and pointing along the line of the CONTEST AREA,
with the palm facing into the CONTEST AREA, the fingers closed, and wave
the arm from left to right or vice versa, several times.
iii. To indicate an opinion that a score or penalty given by the Referee has no
value, a Corner Judge shall raise a hand above the head and wave it from
right to left or vice versa a number of times.
iv. To indicate to the Referee an opinion that there is no progress in a NE-WAZA
situation, the Corner Judge shall signal by raising both hands forward to
shoulder height with the palms facing upwards.
iv. To attract the attention of the Referee one or both Corner Judges should
come to a standing position. Should this action not be successful then the
Corner Judge nearest the Referee may walk along the boundary of the
CONTEST AREA until the Referee takes Note. Neither Corner Judge should
encroach upon the CONTEST AREA unless invited to do so by the Referee.
19. MAT MARSHAL
In Area and National events the services of a Mat Marshall may be used, denoted by their
senior position and experience within the BRITISH JUDO COUNCIL; they shall be responsible
for General Guidance in all instances not covered by these Rules & Regulations and to deal
with any disputes or complaints raised by Coaches, Managers or Contestants. See Section
13.8.
A complaint by Competition Officials, Technical or Administrative, shall be recorded on the
applicable form and lodged with the Mat Marshal who will forward it to the appropriate body.
Note: The National Technical Committee may from time-to-time change, modify or include
additional Contest rules. Not every member will agree with such changes, but first and
foremost our duty is to the health and safety of each member, particularly the young; on this
we will not bend to pressure. The Contest Rules also reflect the policy by which we intend to
promote the BJC aims and objectives and likewise, on this we also remain firm.
20. SITUATIONS NOT COVERED BY THE RULES
Where a situation arises which is not covered by these rules, it shall be dealt with and a
decision given by the Referee following consultation with the Mat Marshal and Corner Judges.
(Reference may be made to International Rules).
SENIOR WEIGHT CATEGORIES
Senior Male
60 kilos & under 66 kilos & under 73 kilos & under 81 kilos & under
90 kilos & under 100 kilos & under Over 100 Kilos Open Weight
Senior Female.
48 Kilos & under 52 Kilos & under 57 Kilos & under 63 Kilos & under
70 Kilos & under 78 Kilos & under Over 78 Kilos Open Weight
24 BJC Contest Rules 01-04--08 ©
21. ILLUSTRATION OF SIGNALS
21.1 REFEREE’S SIGNALS
Hajime/ Sore Made Matte Adjustment of Judogi
Not Valid Non Combativity False Attack (Negative Judo)
Ippon Waza Ari Waza Ari Awasete Ippon
Yuko Koka Hike Wake
Hantei Toketa Yoshi
Sono Mama Medical Examination Osaekomi
Shido Hansoku Make Fusen Gachi Kiken Gachi
Sogo Gachi Yusei Gachi
21.2 CORNER JUDGES SIGNALS
Inside Outside No Progress in Ne Waza
Not Valid Decision Hike Wake
Judge Normal Position Moving the Chair
APPENDIX
JUNIOR COMPETITION
It is imperative that Referees are particularly alert as regard to the application of either
KANSETSU-WAZA or SHIME-WAZA in junior events. It is not necessary for the Referee to
await the ‘effect’ or submission to these techniques when applied. It must be borne in mind
that injury can occur in attempted escapes, therefore a SHIME-WAZA or KANSETSU-WAZA
being in place is sufficient reason for IPPON to be awarded if deemed appropriate.
Corner Judges must always support the Referee in such decisions.
In all weight categories below and including 40 kilogram’s, KANSETSU-WAZA and SHIMEWAZA
are prohibited.
Note: The National Technical Committee may from time to time, change, modify or include
additional Contest rules. Not every member will agree with such changes, but first and
foremost is our duty to the health and safety of each member, particularly the young, on this
we will not bend to pressure; The Contest Rules also reflect the policy by which it is intended
to promote the BJC Aims and Objectives, and likewise on this we also remain firm.
The BJC does make carefully considered changes to the rules and we have moved on since
the time when seniors below the grade of 1st Kyu were not permitted to use a sacrifice or
Maki-Komi techniques in Contest. R. OTANI
A junior having taken a senior grade cannot participate in junior competitions or gradings
regardless of being of junior age.

1. ADDITIONAL RULES FOR JUNIORS
1.1 THE STARTING AND RE-STARTING PROCEDURES
All Contestants must engage with the natural grip i.e. one lapel and one sleeve. At the start
and restart of a Contest the Referee is to instruct the competitors to ‘Take Hold’, then
‘Hajime’.
1.2 FORBIDDEN TECHNIQUES
All sacrifice techniques as direct techniques, combination techniques or counter techniques
All arm-locks and strangle
Drop knee Seoi-Nage
Any form of Kata-Guruma
Leg or ankle grabs
All Maki-Komi throws
Kubi-Nage and any throw attempt where the neck is encircled using one or both arms.
The above applies for the year 2008 to any category of 45 kg and of those below,
And for the year 2009 to any category of 50 kg and of those below,
And for the year 2010 to any category of 55 kg and of those below.
1.3 RESTRICTED TECHNIQUES
Drop knee Seoi-Nage is permitted to junior grades subject to the exclusions as stated in
1.2.viii above; however, two successive attempts of this technique, which, fail to score, will
incur a penalty.
2. ADDITIONAL RULES FOR PRIMARY GRADES
2.1 THE STARTING AND RE-STARTING PROCEDURES
All Contestants must engage with the natural grip i.e. one lapel and one sleeve at the start
and restart of a Contest. The Referee is to instruct the competitors to ‘Take Hold’, then
‘Hajime’.
2.2 FORBIDDEN TECHNIQUES
All sacrifice techniques as direct techniques, combination techniques or counter techniques
All arm-locks and strangles
Drop knee Seoi-Nage
Any form of Kata-Guruma
Leg or ankle grabs
All Maki-Komi throws
Kubi-Nage and any throw attempt where the neck is encircled using one or both arms.
3. PRIMARY ENTRANTS TO CHAMPIONSHIPS
Entry of Primary members of the British Judo Council to National Junior Championships
is subject to the following:
i. It must be clearly understood that a child with a junior grade cannot enter a
primary category regardless of being of primary age
ii. Primary aged children cannot enter a junior category
iii. Entries must be made through the facility of a registered club and the Club
Coach
iv. Entries must be eight or nine years of age on the day of the championship,
proof of age is required
v. Coaches are required to ensure that their entries are sufficiently competent
technically, physically and mentally to compete at this level
vi. At any time during an event a competitor not deemed to fulfil the
requirements of item v. would be withdrawn by the presiding official whose
decision is absolute.
Any competitor withdrawn whether by the Presiding Official or any other person will not
be entitled to a refund.
4. JUNIOR WEIGHT CATEGORIES
Primary, Male & Female (Aged over 8 and below 10)
25 Kilos & Under 28 Kilos & Under 31 Kilos & Under 34 Kilos & Under
Over 34 Kilos, should there be excessive weight differences in this category then there must
be further weight division.
There are no open categories for Primary grades.
Juniors, Male & Female (Aged 10 and over to under 16)
30 Kilos & Under 35 Kilos & Under 40 Kilos & Under 45 Kilos & Under
50 Kilos & Under 55 Kilos & Under 60 Kilos & Under 65 Kilos & Under
Over 65 Kilos, should there be excessive weight differences in this category then there must
be further weight division.
There are no open categories for Junior grades