Alicante, Spain – Juan Manuel García and Mariano Arroyo of the Club de Judo Corredor del Henares claimed the bronze medal at the Copa de España de Judo in Alicante on March 7, 2026, further solidifying their impressive careers in the discipline of kata. The pair finished third in the Kodokan Goshin Jutsu category, a technical form of judo where they have consistently demonstrated expertise.
This latest achievement adds to a growing list of accolades for García and Arroyo, including successes in regional championships in Madrid, national championships, and Supercopas de España. They have also represented Spain on the international stage, competing in European and World Championships. The Kodokan Goshin Jutsu kata, specifically, is a core element of their success, showcasing their precision and coordination.
A Proven Track Record in Judo
The bronze medal in Alicante builds upon a strong foundation of accomplishments for the duo. According to reports, they recently secured a silver medal at the Kata World Series in Gijón in January 2026, marking the inaugural edition of the prestigious global circuit held in Spain. This recent success underscores their position as leading competitors in the national judo kata scene.
For those unfamiliar, katas are prearranged forms of judo techniques performed in pairs, emphasizing precise choreography. The Kodokan Goshin Jutsu kata, in particular, focuses on self-defense, incorporating 21 techniques to counter both armed and unarmed attacks. Judges evaluate not only the technical accuracy of the movements but also the synchronization, rhythm, and authenticity displayed by the athletes.
Beyond Competition: Club de Judo Corredor del Henares’ Wider Impact
The Club de Judo Corredor del Henares’ contributions extend beyond the competitive arena. The club played a significant role in the recent Junior European Cup held in Móstoles from February 28 to March 1, 2026. The event attracted over 500 judokas from 23 countries and five continents. José A. Bretón and Héctor Alonso provided technical support to the European Commission during the competition, while Antonio Núñez assisted with combat organization and Enrique Eraña served as deputy chief referee.
This involvement highlights the club’s commitment to the broader judo community and its dedication to ensuring the smooth operation of high-level events. The club’s multifaceted role – from athlete development to event management – demonstrates its comprehensive approach to the sport.
Local Recognition for a Dedicated Club
Alejandro Navarro, the mayor of Torrejón de Ardoz, publicly recognized the Club de Judo Corredor del Henares for its comprehensive work. “I want to congratulate the Club de Judo Corredor del Henares for the great work they do, not only in the Municipal Judo School training young people, but also with the Senior Judo School and for their work in top-level competitions that make it possible for everything to run successfully,” Navarro stated, according to the Ayuntamiento de Torrejón de Ardoz.
This acknowledgment underscores the club’s importance within the local community and its contribution to the growth of judo in the Community of Madrid and throughout Spain. The club’s dedication to both training and competition has established it as a prominent force in the Spanish judo landscape.
The Club de Judo Corredor del Henares continues to be a vital hub for judo enthusiasts of all ages, fostering a culture of excellence and contributing to the sport’s development at both the national and international levels. Their recent success in Alicante is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the art of judo.
Next up for García and Arroyo is preparation for upcoming national and international kata competitions, with the aim of building on their recent success and further elevating their standing in the world of judo. Fans can follow the Club de Judo Corredor del Henares’ progress through the Ayuntamiento de Torrejón de Ardoz website and social media channels for updates on their training and competition schedule.
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