Six 2nd Place Finishes for Judo

Photo by Matthew Thayer of The Maui News

The Molokai Boys and Girls Judo teams traveled to Maui’s Baldwin High School last Saturday for the season’s second Maui Interscholastic League Judo meeting, raking in six second places.

On the boys’ side, top finishers were Ikua Deponte in second place at 161-pound A division and Jershon Kaalekahi in second place at 161-pound B division. The girls also all finished in second place, with Maria Angst at 103 pounds, Payton Kaalekahi and Cameryn Kahalewai at 129 pounds and Journey Miguel at 154 pounds. They are coached by Tilana Kawaa and Lihau Maioho.

“This competition was a great learning experience for all the Molokai judoka that participated,” said sophomore Kahalewai, who’s competing in her second year with the sport. “It allowed us to put our skills on the mat and show everyone what we’ve got. This season is looking to be another great one!”

The next match for the Farmers is this Saturday at King Kekaulike High School.