World Veterans Judo Championship Lands in Paris: local Heroes Shine on Global Stage
Paris,France – The hallowed grounds of the French Judo Federation headquarters,usually buzzing with Olympic aspirations,recently played host to a different kind of judo fervor. The World Veterans Judo Championship, a testament to the enduring spirit and skill of judokas over 30, descended upon the capital for the very first time, drawing an impressive 2,316 competitors from 64 nations.This prestigious event followed hot on the heels of the electrifying Paris 2024 Olympic Games, proving that the passion for judo in the City of Lights knows no age limit.
Among the global contingent were four dedicated athletes from the Saint-Cyprien Judo club (JCSC) and the Argelésien Judo club (JCA). These judokas, having navigated the demanding masters circuit throughout the 2024-2025 season, earned their coveted spots at this world-class competition. The quartet included:
* Richard Montoya (JCA), 74 years old, competing in the -66 kg category.
* Carlos Pujol (JCSC), 62 years old, also in the -66 kg division.
* Yves Rousselin (JCSC), 80 years old, a formidable presence in the -81 kg class.
* Julien tonnaire (JCSC), 33 years old, fighting in the -66 kg category.
Their journey was supported by the unwavering guidance of their coach, Jean-luc Las, whose presence proved to be both a strategic asset and a comforting anchor.
While the competition was fierce,the experience was undeniably rewarding. Richard Montoya, representing JCA, showcased remarkable resilience, securing a 7th-place finish in his highly competitive -66 kg division. His performance included a hard-fought victory and two defeats, one of which came at the hands of a three-time world champion – a true testament to the caliber of opponents faced.
Carlos Pujol and Julien Tonnaire, though their individual bouts were brief, gained invaluable experience on the world stage. Similarly, Yves Rousselin, the oldest French judoka at the championship, engaged in two intense matches. His first opponent ultimately went on to claim the world title, highlighting the formidable talent pool present.
“It was a unique experience, lived with passion, facing opponents from all over the world,” remarked one of the participants, encapsulating the spirit of the event. This championship wasn’t just about medals; it was about camaraderie,the pursuit of excellence,and the lifelong dedication to the art of judo.
The international judo community now sets its sights on the next major event: the 2026 European Veterans Judo Championship. France will once again play host, with the Teddy-Riner dojo in Lormont, a suburb of Bordeaux, scheduled to welcome athletes on June 20-21, 2026. The legacy of the World Veterans Judo Championship in Paris promises to inspire a new generation of masters to continue their pursuit of judo mastery.
