The eighth annual Renshinkan Judo Dojo Championships were held on May 5 at SUNY Brockport. Conducted under the direction of Dr. Sachio Ashida, the tournament brought together judo enthusiasts from Western New York to Maryland.

Over 50 contestants, ranging in age from six to 45, competed for gold, silver and bronze medals. The Renshinkan Tournament is a stepping-stone for area judo enthusiasts to prepare for continuation of their studies in the sport of judo.

During the Opening Ceremony, staged Saturday morning, Nicky Ramundo, of Brockport, delivered the Athlete's Oath and Tony Grisanti was chosen to deliver the Official's Oath. Athletes winning gold medals included Jeff Guinta of Penfield, Michael Gresens of Rochester, Stephen Helstowski, of Rochester, Marin Valentino of Auburn, Marie Delobbe of Brockport, Kevin Fellows of Penfield, John Farran of Penfield, Walter MacDonald of Brockport and Christopher Arena of Penfield.

With the success of the eighth consecutive tournament, the volunteers have started the planning stages for the 2002 event. Tentatively planned for early fall, the tournament committee is actively looking into the possibility of staging a smaller competition to complement the annual tournament staged in May.