TROY—When Larry Lamar Bowers came to Troy University as a freshman, he had never heard of the Japanese sport of judo.

Two years later, Bowers is devoting an entire summer to studying judo in Tokyo. The junior history major from Opp has progressed from novice to captain of the Troy University Judo Club.

“I was invited by a friend who wanted to go to judo club, but did not want to go alone,” Bowers said. “I went and loved it from day one. At the time I had no idea what judo was but it was a great experience.”

Bowers’ newfound devotion to judo led him to befriend his judo teacher Kei Matsumoto, a native of Japan. When Bowers received the opportunity to visit Tokyo to add to his knowledge of the sport, he jumped at the chance. Bowers arrived in Tokyo in May and will return to the United States in August.

“As Japan is the birthplace of judo, it is also the best place to practice, as you can literally go anywhere, anytime to find a practice place,” Bowers said. “As my instructor is originally from there I was able to find a place to live.”

In Tokyo, Bowers practices judo six days a week, while living with two families. He stays with one family Monday through Wednesday and the other Thursday through Sunday. He also works part time at a tea company, where he packages tea and operates equipment. He said he is enjoying learning about Japanese culture and living in Tokyo.

While the people of Tokyo welcome visitors from the west, Bowers said learning Japanese language and customs takes some time.

“I believe the hardest cultural differences are first the language and then the politeness you have to show to elders and new people,” Bowers said.

Bowers said he doesn’t have any firm plans for his judo other than to “continue training and competing and seeing what happens after that.”

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