Saint-Marcel, France – Nearly 200 young judokas from the Alliance Dojo 71 had a unique training opportunity on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, as they practiced alongside Romain Valadier-Picard, the 2025 World Judo Championship silver medalist. The event, held in Saint-Marcel, was organized by the Comité Judo 71 and Crédit Agricole Centre-Est, providing a boost for the local judo community.
Valadier-Picard, 23, has quickly risen through the ranks of the sport, achieving significant milestones in recent years. In addition to his silver medal at the 2025 World Championships, he also secured first place at the 2025 Paris Grand Slam and a bronze medal at the 2023 European Championships. His impressive record and approachable demeanor made him an ideal mentor for the aspiring judokas.
The training sessions focused on fundamental techniques, specifically kumikata (grip fighting) and Morote seoi nage (a shoulder throw technique). Valadier-Picard guided the participants through drills, offering personalized advice and demonstrating proper form. The goal was to provide practical instruction that the young athletes could immediately apply to their own training.
Approximately twenty members of the Alliance Dojo 71 participated, accompanied by their three instructors. The club’s leadership expressed gratitude to the Comité Judo 71, Crédit Agricole Centre Est, and Valadier-Picard for making the event possible. The opportunity to train with a world-class athlete is expected to inspire the young judokas and encourage greater dedication to the sport.
“It’s incredibly valuable for our students to learn from someone who has reached the highest levels of judo,” said a spokesperson for the Alliance Dojo 71. “Romain’s willingness to share his knowledge and experience is truly appreciated.”
The event wasn’t just about technical skills; it was also about fostering a passion for judo. Witnessing Valadier-Picard’s success firsthand is intended to motivate the young athletes to pursue their own goals and strive for excellence. The Comité Judo 71 regularly organizes events like these to promote the sport and support the development of young talent within the Saône-et-Loire department.
For many of the participants, this was a memorable experience that will likely shape their future involvement in judo. The combination of expert instruction, a positive learning environment, and the presence of a role model created a truly special occasion. The event underscores the importance of community support in nurturing athletic talent.
Valadier-Picard’s participation highlights the growing popularity of judo in France and the commitment of organizations like the Comité Judo 71 to providing opportunities for young athletes. The success of this event suggests that similar initiatives will be planned in the future.
The Alliance Dojo 71 will resume its regular training schedule next week, incorporating the lessons learned from Valadier-Picard. The club continues to welcome new members of all ages and skill levels.
What’s Next: Romain Valadier-Picard is expected to compete in the European Judo Open in Madrid, Spain, from May 22-24, 2026. The Alliance Dojo 71 will be closely following his progress and using his achievements as inspiration for their own training.
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