Kenya Prisons Service are the champions of the fourth edition of the Judo Japanese Ambassador's Cup, which was held on Saturday at the Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Indoor Gymnasium in Nairobi.
Speaking in Nairobi after the event, Kenya Judo Federation (KJF) President Shadrack Maluki expressed his excitement about the first event of 2026 and urged his athletes to stay focused as he aims to revamp judo countrywide, with a sharp focus on dominating the continent during international competitions.
“I am happy to have seen a successful event here in Nairobi that has attracted athletes from all over the country. Do not let your guard down—stay focused and sharp because we have international events coming up soon and we have to make a statement,” warned Maluki, adding that Kenya must remain vigilant and fight for qualification spots at the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles, USA.
The Ambassador's Cup featured top national talent across senior, cadet, and junior categories, with Kenya Prisons Service crowned the 2026 champions after winning four gold, four silver, and two bronze medals in the senior category.
Kajiado Stars and Ulinzi took the runners-up positions, while other podium finishers and participants included Kajiado North, Kenya Police, the Refugee Team, Gitothua, Ravine, Malindi, and Kenyatta University.
The event was graced by the Japanese Ambassador to Kenya, Hiroshi Matsuura, who emphasized that the Ambassador's Cup is a major annual event supported by the Embassy of Japan and the Kenya Judo Federation.
He noted that it serves as a key tournament to promote judo, discipline, and the Olympic spirit—providing a perfect platform for Kenyan judo athletes to shine as the country sets its sights on the LA 2028 Summer Olympic Games.
