OLD MAN JUDO with Ray Marquez & Billy Gavigan | The Shintaro Higashi Show
Is judo just for kids and Olympians? Absolutely not. In this special episode, Shintaro Higashi and David Kim sit down with veterans judo champions, coaches, and movement-builders Ray Marquez and Billy Gavigan to break down why “Old Man Judo” is having a major moment.
What is “Veterans Judo” and Why Does It Matter?
Once known as “masters,” veterans judo is the division for judoka over 30. But the term “veteran” can confuse—especially in the U.S., where people associate it with military service (note: it isn’t military-specific). Internationally, especially in Europe, “veterans” or “masters” judo is a robust circuit with age-based M1, M2, M3... divisions that go all the way up for competitors in their seventies, eighties, and even nineties.
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Ray and Billy are leading the charge with Veterans Judo USA—a non-profit organizing tournaments and camps all over the States to answer a simple need: judo should be a lifetime sport.
“As far as judo, it’s supposed to be a lifetime sport. Kano wanted this thing to go on forever. Competing is a necessary component of learning judo. We need to stay active, all the way to the end.” —Ray
The Problem: Where’s the Competition for Older Athletes?
After college, most sports drop off—especially for those wanting real competition and growth. Ray, Billy, and their team have created a solution:
Veterans-only tournaments (no kids, no 20-year-old black belts)
Novice divisions, so beginners don’t have to face lifelong black belts
Efficient event formats: In, out, and done by 3pm—with afterparties!
Points rosters and rankings to add motivation and community connection
Why Compete After 30?
Lifelong health: Many adults lose their fitness and focus post-career; veterans judo gives it back.
Real friendships and travel: U.S. judoka now travel the world together, forming “old man” teams and camaraderie.
Purpose and growth: For Billy, who re-entered judo at 240lbs, drinking daily, it meant getting his life and health back—and now, winning national titles.
Role models: The Masters scene features legends who’ve won on every stage but give back by teaching, establishing dojos, and building community.
International Inspiration: How Big Can This Get?
Europe leads the way:
Some tournaments in France and the EU cap at 800 veterans and run a dozen big events per year.
In Japan, you’ll see packed 90-year-old divisions and world-class competition.
In the U.S., the movement’s growing—recent tournaments attracted 140+ competitors, with numbers rising every cycle.
“At the Veterans Worlds in Vegas, I met competitors coming from everywhere—people I never even heard of were entering. The movement’s got real momentum.” —Billy
Overcoming Old Barriers
Many older athletes worry about injury or going uncontested at events. Veterans Judo USA tackles this head-on:
More divisions and rankings to match you up by age, weight, AND experience.
Everyone gets a match (points or exhibition), and events are safe and efficient—tweaked rule sets for age, and sympathetic refereeing.
Novice and beginner support: ensuring no one’s facing “the killer black belt” unless they want that challenge!
How to Get Involved (and Why It’s Good for the Entire Sport)
VeteransJudoUSA.com: Find events, connect with gyms, and join the nationwide network.
Regular events in destination cities like Charleston, Chicago, Denver, and more—plus an annual October camp.
All gyms are welcome, and if you don’t see an event near you, reach out—they’re looking to branch into new regions.
Social media presence: @VeteransJudoUSA for updates, stories, and direct connections with leaders like Ray and Billy.
Full integration with national systems: Points ranking, pathways to international Worlds, and more.
Pro Tips For Getting Started
Don’t worry if you’re new—you can join as a novice, find a welcoming club, and progress at your own pace.
Don’t let the lack of local Masters matches stop you; most competitors sign up last-minute, so numbers rise near event time.
Not sure where to train? Contact the organizers—there’s a nationwide network of coaches ready to help.
Don’t underestimate the level—World and Olympic medalists are out there still competing, but everyone finds fun, fair, safe matches.
“The veterans division is still the most neglected, but we’re turning that around—because the old guys have the resources and fire to support judo, both financially and with experience.” —Shintaro
Looking Forward: The Vision for U.S. Veterans Judo
With support and awareness, U.S. old man judo can reach European levels—tournaments with hundreds of competitors, vibrant social events, and a full circle that grows judo for all ages. It’s not just “old man” judo— it’s a movement for lifelong health, friendship, and challenge.
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