Judokas from all across Iowa descended into Ames during the weekend for the 19th annual Iowa Summer Games’ Judo Tournament.

In a sauna-like Beyer Hall before dozens of fans and family, Judokas young and old competed for fun and pride.

Judo is a martial art similar to wrestling involving various throws and pin maneuvers.

Kodokan Judo was derived within the fighting system of feudal Japan. Founded in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano, Judo is a refinement of the ancient martial art of Jujutsu.

Belts are awarded based on skill, much like in Karate or Tae Kwon Do, and competitors from white through black belt were in attendance for the competition.

“We don’t want anyone taking this too seriously and hurting another competitor,” said Judo commissioner Scott Cunningham.

The children’s tournament was broken down into weight classes and sex, but not by skill level. In many competitive Judo tournaments, the players are broken into groups based on weight and belt color.

“We are just looking for everyone to have fun,” Cunningham said.

Among the competitors was 8-year-old Madison Parkhill from Altoona, who was in her second Judo tournament.

“I’m not afraid of the boys,” Madison said, after finding out she would be competing against one.

She is a yellow belt, which is one rank ahead of white, and said her favorite throw is Osoto-gari, that involves a one-legged sweeping motion to take the opponent down.

Osoto-gari is one of eight throws in the group known as Dai-ikkyo.

Mastering these throws is key to belt advancement in Judo.

After having done well in her first tournament, Madison said she was excited to be in the Iowa Games.

“I hope I can win my matches,” she said.

The adults competed later in the afternoon, though precautions were taken to make sure everyone stayed hydrated. Temperatures in the gymnasium rose well into the 90s by the time the adults took the mat.