Harsh Singh Plans Overseas Training in Japan Or Georgia Before Asian Games

Commonwealth Games gold medallist Harsh Singh is considering a training stint in Japan or Georgia as he prepares for next month’s Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. Harsh recently became the first Indian male judoka to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal and is now aiming to reproduce that success against a significantly stronger field at the continental competition.

Speaking on the sidelines of a felicitation ceremony for Indian judokas, Harsh described Japan and Georgia as ideal training destinations. Both countries have established themselves among the world’s strongest judo nations, and he believes working with coaches who possess Olympic-level experience would strengthen his preparation and help him pursue greater success at major international competitions.

Harsh acknowledged that Indian judokas remain behind the world’s leading competitors in certain technical areas despite possessing considerable physical strength. He identified footwork and gripping technique as aspects requiring further improvement. Training under experienced Japanese coaches, he said, could help Indian athletes address those weaknesses and compete more effectively at the highest level.

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The champion also admitted that winning a judo medal at the Commonwealth Games is comparatively easier than succeeding at the Asian Games or the Olympics. Asian nations, particularly Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, traditionally field accomplished judokas, making the continental event an especially demanding test for Indian competitors seeking podium finishes.

Reflecting on his historic achievement in Glasgow, Harsh said he had entered the Commonwealth Games with the gold medal as his only objective. India had previously earned silver and bronze medals in men’s judo, motivating him to pursue the title that had remained elusive. He credited disciplined preparation and a positive mindset for helping him achieve the landmark victory.

Harsh recalled that his semifinal contest was particularly difficult because his opponent used a style similar to his own. Although Tomoe Nage remains his preferred technique, he adjusted his strategy and used advice from senior judoka Nishant to execute Kataguruma effectively. With the Asian Games approaching, Harsh hopes that further technical refinement and overseas exposure will help him challenge a stronger field.

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