“El deporte acumula todos los valores que el ser humano necesita para la vida: es salud, compañerismo, esfuerzo…”
The milestone year also marks the 30th anniversary of the town’s Municipal Judo and Jiu-Jitsu School, operating out of the José Cañizares Judo Hall at the Sonia Molina-Prados Martín-Buro athletics track.
Half a Century of Martial Arts Training in Ciudad Real
Alongside traditional children’s classes in judo and jiu-jitsu, the municipal school continues to run a specialized adult self-defense program designed to broaden community participation across age groups.
Club president Pedro Callejas welcomed municipal officials to the opening session, emphasizing that the organization’s core mission remains unchanged after five decades. The city-backed school, originally established by the town hall three decades ago and managed directly by the club, aims to instill discipline, competitive readiness, and life skills in local youth.
Municipal Support and Equipment Rollout for European Town of Sport
Mayor Nieva and Sports Councilor Laura Carrillo marked the opening by distributing branded backpacks and t-shirts to the student athletes. The equipment rollout coincides with Manzanares holding the designation of European Town of Sport for the year, according to municipal records.
Town administration figures show that participation costs for local sports schools have remained completely frozen for the past 12 years.
Tradition of Mayoral Visits to the José Cañizares Hall
Municipal leadership attendance at the start and finish of each judo season has become a firm local tradition since Nieva took office. Saturday’s visit to the José Cañizares facility not only honored the judo club’s half-century benchmark but also formally initiated the autumn schedule for all municipal sports schools across Manzanares.
Callejas expressed gratitude for the uninterrupted administrative backing from the local government since the martial arts school opened its doors 30 years ago. Both municipal leaders and club executives highlighted the robust public and private sports infrastructure in the locality, which serves residents of all ages across various athletic disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Club de Judo de Manzanares train?
Training sessions take place at the Sala de Judo ‘José Cañizares’, located within the Sonia Molina-Prodos Martín-Buro athletics track complex in Manzanares.

How many students are enrolled in the municipal school this season?
The municipal school counts 44 active participants this term, divided across children’s classes in judo and jiu-jitsu alongside an adult self-defense program directed by Paqui Moreno.
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