Judo Western Australia is proud to recognise the achievement of three WA judoka who successfully passed their Kodokan Dan examinations during the 2025 WA–Japan Judo Exchange Program, held in Tokyo, Japan.

The examinations took place on Friday, 12 December 2025 at the Kodokan, the spiritual home of judo. Representing Western Australia, O’ren Kelly (UWA Judo Club), Luc Tournier (UWA Judo Club), and Lito Uyami (Lakay Judo Club) each successfully demonstrated the technical, theoretical, and kata requirements necessary to attain their respective ranks.

O’ren Kelly was awarded 1st Dan, Luc Tournier attained 2nd Dan, and Lito Uyami successfully passed his examination for 3rd Dan. Achieving a Kodokan-recognised dan grade is a significant milestone in any judoka’s journey, reflecting years of dedicated training, technical understanding, and commitment to the principles of judo.

In the week leading up to the examination, the candidates were supported by a group of experienced WA judoka from SouthWest Judo Academy. Simon Read, Jacob Read, Thomas Knights, and Olivia Knights assisted with preparation and served as partners for the required kata demonstrations, playing a key role in ensuring the candidates were thoroughly prepared for examination day.

The Kodokan Dan Examination panel consisted of Shoshida Sensei, Yamamoto Sensei, and Hirano Sensei, with the examination observed by Iwanaga Sensei. Judo WA acknowledges the expertise, professionalism, and guidance of the Kodokan instructors and examiners who oversaw the process.

Photos from the Kodokan Dan Examination are available to view via the following gallery: Kodokan Dan Examination Photo Gallery .

Judo Western Australia congratulates O’ren, Luc, and Lito on this outstanding achievement and thanks the Kodokan and its staff for providing such a meaningful and authentic judo experience. Opportunities of this nature are invaluable to the development of our members and strengthen the connection between Western Australian judo and the birthplace of our sport.