Who is Neo? Can you tell me a bit about yourself and what you like to do?

My name is Neo Penuel Tulomba and I am 8 years old. What i like to do is play soccer, Judo and write stories.

Who introduced you to Judo?

I knew about Judo last year when I was in Grade 1. The Judo coach came to my class and told us about Judo and gave us forms to sign up if we were interested. My mom agreed to sign up for me and that’s when I started.

What was the special competition you won? Can you describe it?

The competition I won was special because I got to travel with my mom to Cape Town. The Cape Town Competition was the second last competition for the year. We had our final competition few weeks ago in Gauteng and I also came 1st place. I was excited when they gave me a medal and I got a chance to stand on the 1st place podium.

It was very interesting because I had to fight my friend who is also 8 years old.

What did you get as a prize for winning?

I got 1st place medals. I also got a stripe on my Judo belt. This was my first stripe; I need two more stipes on my belt to move to get the next belt. My belt right now is Fully Yellow, after two more stripes I will move to a yellow and orange belt.

Where are you from? Can you tell me a bit about your hometown?

I am frow Riverside View Extension 61. I moved here since I was 4 years old. I love it here because there are lots of parks for playing. There are big houses and big yards with lots of space to play.

Where did the Judo competition happen?

Cape Town and the Finals was in Gauteng, Johannesburg.

When did you start liking Judo? How long have you been doing it?

I started liking Judo when I first met the Judo teacher and I have been doing Judo for 2 years.

When did the competition take place?

From the 4th to the 6th of October.

Why did you join Judo?

Because it seemed fun, and they teach you stuff to protect yourself and your family.

Was winning important to you?

Yes, because I promised my mom to win.

What does it mean to you?

It means a lot to me because it is a very nice sport.

How did you practice for the competition? Did you have any special moves?

Before the competition my Judo teacher took me for Practice at Roodepoort every Thursday, and Yes, my special move was a throw and the name of it is Kouchi.

How did you feel when you won the competition?

I felt great and happy.