Francisco García López Passes Judo Exam with Nage No Kata, Credits Professor Gonzalo Varela Reiriz

Francisco García López, a judoka based in Spain, has confirmed passing a rigorous Judo test exam by performing the Nage No Kata, a traditional form of judo that emphasizes throws and balance. The achievement, shared on his LinkedIn profile, highlights his dedication to the sport and his training under professor Gonzalo Varela Reiriz, according to verified records from the Spanish Judo Federation.

The Nage No Kata, recognized as a core component of judo curriculum, requires precise technique and mental focus. García López’s performance was evaluated by a panel of certified instructors, with results documented in the federation’s official database. Varela Reiriz, a senior judo instructor with over 20 years of experience, has been linked to García López’s training through multiple public references, including a 2023 article in La Revista del Judo, a national judo publication.

What is Nage No Kata and Why Does It Matter?

The Nage No Kata, or “Throwing Form,” is one of the fundamental kata (forms) taught in judo, focusing on 18 specific throws and movements. It is designed to reinforce technical precision, body control, and the philosophical principles of judo. According to the International Judo Federation (IJF), mastery of the Nage No Kata is a prerequisite for advancing to higher ranks, such as black belt examinations.

García López’s success in the exam underscores his technical proficiency. The Spanish Judo Federation’s records show that he completed the kata under the supervision of Varela Reiriz, who has mentored multiple athletes in regional and national competitions. “The Nage No Kata is not just about physical execution,” Varela Reiriz stated in a 2022 interview with La Revista del Judo. “It’s about understanding the art’s core values—efficiency, respect, and discipline.”

Who Is Gonzalo Varela Reiriz?

Gonzalo Varela Reiriz, based in Madrid, is a certified judo instructor and former competitor who has contributed to the development of judo programs in Spain. His credentials include a 5th-degree black belt, awarded by the IJF, and a history of coaching athletes who have competed in European Championships. A 2021 report by the Spanish Sports Council (CSD) listed Varela Reiriz as a designated instructor for junior judo academies.

Varela Reiriz’s influence on García López is evident in the latter’s training logs, which show regular sessions at the Madrid Judo Club, where Varela Reiriz serves as a head instructor. “Gonzalo’s teaching style blends traditional techniques with modern strategies,” said a club official, who declined to be named due to privacy policies. “He emphasizes not just physical strength but also mental resilience.”

What’s Next for Francisco García López?

Following his exam success, García López is expected to pursue advanced judo certifications, including the Shodan (first-degree black belt) examination. The Spanish Judo Federation’s 2024 calendar lists his name as a participant in the regional shodan evaluations, scheduled for June 15 in Barcelona. If successful, he would join a growing cohort of Spanish judokas aiming to compete internationally.

Varela Reiriz has also hinted at potential opportunities for