Press Release NHK Sports Program Wins ABU Prize TOKYO, October 24, 2016 —NHK’s “Spirits of the Athletes” was selected for Best TV Sports Program at this year’s ABU Prizes. The winners were announced today at a ceremony in Bali, Indonesia during the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union General Assembly. According to the organizers, this year’s competition had a total of 271 entries (181 for television and 90 for radio) in 13 categories. ABU Prize for Best TV Sports Program Spirits of the Athletes: Tadahiro Nomura The Last Shoulder Throw (2015, 50 min.) Tadahiro Nomura dominated the world of judo with his lightning-fast shoulder throw. He won Olympic gold in an unprecedented three consecutive Olympic Games held in Atlanta, Sydney and Athens. Since 2013, Spirits of the Athletes has been filming Nomura and his indomitable spirit, as he strived to win one more match using his signature shoulder throw, despite being seriously injured. In August, 2015, Nomura decided to enter a tournament after a two-year absence, with a certain decision in mind. Was he able to perform a perfect shoulder throw? This program documents the struggles and final match of Nomura, a judoka once hailed as the best in the world. Recent NHK Wins at the ABU Prizes - Blue Skies and a Shooting Star (Best Radio Drama, 2015) - Sumo Spirit: A Storm from Egypt (Best Sports Program, 2014) - A Pot of Goldfish: 55 Years of Dreaming (Best Radio Drama, 2014) About the ABU The ABU is a group of broadcasting organizations that work together to achieve advances in television and radio throughout the Asia-Pacific region. It was established in 1964 and now has more than 270 members in 69 countries and regions. .