The above is one of the finest demonstrations of my least favorite throw of all the judo syllabus, kata guruma. And whats more, this awesome demonstration takes place in a competitive setting against a resistant opponent. And this thrower even makes it look easy!
The story goes that Kano invented this throw and actually was able to throw it in shiai (competitions of death-match type seriousness) but I sure wouldn't figure to ever actually see it tried - much less successfully. I could see doing some sacrifice variants, but this is pretty close to the standing kata form of the thing. This is outstanding (pun intended).
Isn't there at least one version of the story behind this throw that Kano pulled it from western wrestling (the fireman's carry)?
ReplyDeleteMy impression is that it is used in wrestling a fair amount, but maybe it's because they often go to a knee rather than staying on the feet.
Yeah, this is the fireman's carry and it is pretty easy when done from a knee. It's the standing kata form of the thing that is so awful - especially for longer/taller guys like me. There are some sacrifice variations that are fabulous and work great against resistant opponent in tournament settings. The standing thing is kind of a special treat to see in a tournament setting (for me)
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