[Okayama University] Second Consecutive Year! Sota Nakamura of the Okayama University Kendo Club to Compete in the All Japan Student Kendo Championship

The Okayama University Kendo Club participated in the 73rd Chugoku-Shikoku Student Kendo Championship held at the Kawasaki Gakuen General Gymnasium on May 17, 2026. Sota Nakamura (5th year, School of Medicine) placed in the top 20 in the men's individual competition, marking his second consecutive appearance at the All Japan Student Kendo Championship. The tournament featured 256 participants from 27 universities. With only 20 spots available for the national tournament, Nakamura secured his place by winning two matches in the repechage round after reaching the top 32. Nakamura commented, 'Although I was busy with medical school exams and couldn't practice as much as I wanted, I made sure to practice actively during my free time. I am grateful to everyone who practiced with me. I focused on each match, and even when physically exhausted, the support from my teammates helped me stay calm until the end. I believe the support from our advisor, Mr. Nakata, as well as alumni and other teachers, led to this result. I will continue to practice daily to advance further than last year in the national tournament.' The All Japan Student Kendo Championship will be held on July 4th and 5th, 2026, at the Nippon Budokan.