About DBT Judo
The story of Denver's oldest judo club — over 70 years of tradition, competition, and community.
DBT Judo at the Denver Buddhist Temple, 1947 Lawrence St
The Oldest Judo Club in Denver
Founded in 1953 at the Denver Buddhist Temple, DBT Judo carries over 70 years of Japanese-American cultural heritage. Originally known as the Denver School of Judo, we are the longest-running judo program in Denver and one of the oldest in the state of Colorado.
Our practice is grounded in Jita Kyoei — mutual benefit and welfare. This principle, central to Jigoro Kano's teachings, means we train hard but safely, always looking out for one another on and off the mat.
Under the guidance of Sensei Thom Sakata, our head instructor, the club maintains its commitment to both competitive excellence and cultural preservation. Sensei Sakata coordinates all club activities, communications, and has led the club's participation in community events including the Colfax Marathon relay team.
Our Philosophy
Jita Kyoei — Mutual Benefit
The foundational principle of our dojo. Every judoka at DBT trains not just for personal improvement, but for the welfare of all training partners. We train hard, but safely — building each other up through disciplined practice.
Seiryoku Zenyo — Maximum Efficiency
Jigoro Kano taught that the best course of action uses minimum effort for maximum effect. This principle extends beyond the mat into how we approach life — finding the most effective path in all circumstances.
Affiliations & Community
Colorado Judo League
Active member and tournament participant through the state judo league.
USA Judo
Sanctioned club under the national governing body for judo in the United States.
Community Engagement
Cherry Blossom Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Colfax Marathon, and the Senseis Memorial Scholarship.
Community Highlights
Colfax Marathon Relay Team
The DBT Judo and Aikido relay team competed in the 2014 Colfax Marathon, finishing 148th out of 940 teams with a time of 3:43:08 at an 8:31 pace.
Travis Stevens Clinic
Two-time Olympian and 2016 Olympic silver medalist Travis Stevens conducted an all-day clinic at DBTJ, sponsored by the Colorado Judo League.
Kan Geiko — Winter Training
Each winter, DBT Judo participates in Kan Geiko — a Japanese tradition of training in the bitter cold at the beginning of the New Year to toughen one's spirit. Members visit surrounding judo clubs including Northglenn Judo and Denver Judo for a full week of practice.
Cherry Blossom & Dragon Boat Festivals
DBT Judo has been a regular participant in Denver's Cherry Blossom Festival and Dragon Boat Festival, demonstrating judo and representing the Japanese-American community.
DBT Judo Senseis Memorial Scholarship
DBT Judo supports the Japanese American community through the Senseis Memorial Scholarship program. This scholarship honors the legacy of our founding senseis and their contributions to both judo and the broader Denver community. It reflects our commitment to the principle of Jita Kyoei — giving back and building mutual benefit beyond the dojo walls.
Ready to Step on the Mat?
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced judoka, DBT Judo welcomes you. Join Denver's oldest judo club and become part of a tradition that spans over seven decades.