Women’s competition was only included as a medal event at the 1992 Games in Barcelona.

The sport is derived from Jujitsu, the hand-to-hand combat technique of ancient samurai warriors. It involves throwing opponents to the floor and holding them in submission.

The competition takes place in a dojo (a Japanese word which translates to “place of the way”).

Athletes (judoka) compete in seven weight categories with 2 bronze medals awarded in each category. Each country can qualify a maximum of one athlete per category.

John Ryan competed for Ireland at the 1964 Games in Tokyo.