There's probably way more to it than that to compete, but to enjoy watching it, the learning curve is much easier to climb. Nailing down the nuances of scoring may be the toughest part. In fact, in the streaming video commentary box, some guy (who I'm assuming is an analyst) said he has refereed with someone of these guys and even he would admit to being confused at some of the calls.) The blog Total MMA probably put it best regarding the scoring: "if you see what looks like a particularly awesome throw, the match will likely end with that throw." So if it looks like severe ippwnage, it probably was.
Other ways to see if they won: reaction of the judo combatant (judist?), or reaction of the coach, the latter of which is only applicable if you know what their country's flag colors are. Mind you, I'm just learning Tajikistan actually existed.
The judo commentators noted that the sport is the fourth most watched sport online on NBCOlympics.com — behind swimming, gymnastics, and basketball, perhaps? — so I'm inclined to believe that, much like in real life, I'm not exactly ahead of the game here. But I did just see a French girl and an Israeli girl lock arms, presumably, in an argument over me.
Article comments
1 - Loren
A judo player is called a judoka.
I really like the new coined term "ippwnage"!
2 - Street
I've trained with some great judo guys in my martial arts career and though some see it as purely a sport it does have real practical application with dedication and training