The Kagami Biraki, a Japanese ceremony, marks the start of the martial year. Thierry Rey, legend of French judo, will honor the event in Agen. Its presence underlines the importance of transmission and the values of judo.
Kagami Biraki, literally “opening the mirror”, is a traditional Japanese ceremony marking the start of the new martial year. This Saturday, January 24 from 6 p.m. at the Agen Stadium, this event will take place in the presence of Thierry Rey.
An emblematic figure of French judo, Thierry Rey will come to share this highlight of federal life organized by the Lot-et-Garonne Judo Committee, alongside judokas, teachers, managers and enthusiasts of the department. His arrival gives this 2026 edition a very special dimension, combining sporting heritage, transmission and founding values of judo.
The first French judoka to be crowned Olympic champion in 1980 in Moscow (-65 kg), Thierry Rey left his mark on the history of French sport. Multiple European champion, world medalist, he has established himself as an elegant, efficient and deeply committed judo competitor. After his sporting career, he continued his commitment to judo and high-level sport, notably as national coach, technical director and head of Olympic missions.
Kagami Biraki, a founding tradition
In judo, Kagami Biraki symbolizes a time of renewal, respect, transmission and recognition. It is during this ceremony that the ranks, commitments, careers and successes of judokas and actors in federal life are honored. It constitutes a solemn and convivial moment, bringing together all generations around the same spirit: progressing together on the path of judo.
Freely open to all audiences, this evening promises to be a sporting and human highlight, celebrating the excellence, tradition and future of judo in Lot-et-Garonne.
