Namibian athletes scheduled to compete in the judo events at the ongoing Deaflympics were disqualified on Saturday, after failing to meet the required weight categories during the official weigh-in. 

Team Namibia, making their debut at the Games’ 100th anniversary and 25th edition, travelled with 10 athletes, eight for athletics and two for judo. 

The two judokas, Lesley Kamete and Pamwenase Hamwele, were set to compete on Sunday, but both fell short of their respective weight divisions. 

Kamete, entered for the 60–63-kilogramme (kg) category, weighed in at 45kg, well below the qualifying threshold. Hamwele, expected to compete in the 64- 66kg category, weighed in at 60kg and therefore also failed to meet the required weight. 

Speaking to Nampa on Saturday, Namibia Deaf Sport Federation (NDSF) president Abner Sheya expressed disappointment that the athletes, despite their hard work and preparation, were disqualified for not meeting the necessary weight standards. 

“Our two judo athletes were unable to qualify for participation in the competition scheduled for tomorrow due to weight-category requirements. As a result, the Namibian judo team cannot participate in this event. This is a significant disappointment for Namibia Deaf Sport, despite seeing similar weight-related disqualifications affecting athletes from other nations as well,” he said. 

Sheya added that while the outcome was regrettable, the federation respects the strict rules and standards governing international judo competitions at the Olympic level. 

“Our athletes, coaches, and officials have learnt valuable lessons from this experience, and we are committed to improving our preparation for future events. We remain proud of our athletes and their dedication, and we will continue working to ensure better readiness for upcoming competitions,” he said. 

With the disqualification of the judo contingent, Team Namibia is now only expected to compete in track events on Monday. 

-Nampa