Dominant Bangladesh clinch four golds, secure NECOS runners-up spot

Bangladesh’s judokas delivered a dominant all-round performance to finish runners-up at the 8th NECOS International Judo Championship in Kathmandu, securing an impressive haul of four gold and one bronze medal.

Held at the Multipurpose Martial Arts Centre in Nayabazar from 19 March, the five-day international meet featured nearly 300 athletes from hosts Nepal, alongside Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Competing across various weight divisions, the Bangladeshi contingent stood out throughout the tournament with superior technique, sharp tactics and remarkable composure.

Fabia Bushra emerged as the standout performer of the competition, clinching gold in the women’s +70kg category in emphatic fashion.

She needed just four seconds to win her semi-final bout and wrapped up the final within 30 seconds, a breathtaking display that earned her the Player of the Tournament award.

On the final day, Shahin Ahmed added to the gold tally by triumphing in the men’s -73kg category with authority.

Earlier, Aziza Aleya Lion had set the tone by winning gold in the U-18 cadet +53kg event, while Usaching Marma Bijoy secured top honors in the boys’ cadet +62kg category.

Remi Hasi contributed with a bronze medal in the girls’ -45kg event.

With four gold and one bronze medal, Bangladesh finished as runners-up in the junior category, underlining the country’s growing strength in regional judo.

The six-member Bangladesh team comprising three boys and three girls - all from Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan - was managed by Dr Lutfur Rahman, with Md Abu Bakar Siddique serving as coach, while Mymensingh District Sports Officer Al-Amin accompanied the team as official.

The team returned home on Monday and received a warm welcome at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, where officials of the Bangladesh Judo Federation and supporters greeted the athletes with floral reception and heartfelt congratulations.

This impressive success in Kathmandu reflects the steady progress of Bangladesh judo and offers fresh optimism for the sport’s future on the international stage.