Arica, Chile – After more than eight years of campaigning, the judo community in Arica has a dedicated, modern training and competition facility. The new integral judo center was officially inaugurated this week, a project funded by the Regional Government and executed by the municipal authorities, benefiting all judo associations within the city.
Judo holds a significant place in Arica’s sporting history, but for years, practitioners faced structural challenges. The opening of this center marks a turning point, providing a permanent home for the sport and its athletes. The facility includes offices and a new tatami – the traditional padded mat used in judo – for training and competition.
“We’ve been fighting for this space since 2017,” said German Contreras, the legal representative of the Arica Judo Association. “The site was in poor condition, but thanks to regional funds transferred to the municipality, we were able to make this dream a reality. It’s very complete, with an office, bathrooms, a new tatami, and space for judokas.” Region XV News reported on the opening.
The project’s roots trace back to a commitment made by Arica Mayor Orlando Vargas and Diego Paco to prioritize the development of sports within the city. “One day, alongside Diego Paco, we said we would work to enhance and improve the city and its sports programs,” Vargas stated. “We are delivering infrastructure to these young athletes. This helps them become great athletes, but likewise better people, better citizens.” The Municipality of Arica also highlighted the collaborative effort.
The new center is expected to accommodate over 50 young people and adults who practice judo in Arica. The sport has a strong track record of success in the city, consistently bringing home medals and building a foundation for future Olympic aspirations. The facility’s completion represents a significant investment in the future of judo in the region.
The Regional Government of Arica and Parinacota has been actively supporting the expansion of training zones for various sports, including judo, as evidenced by updates shared on their official Facebook page in October 2025. This commitment extends beyond judo, with recent allocations also directed towards supporting athletics, demonstrating a broader dedication to fostering athletic talent within the region. The Core AyP approved new direct allocations in 2025 to support both judo and athletics, recognizing the importance of community integration and providing opportunities for local athletes. The Government Regional Arica y Parinacota stated that these allocations reflect a commitment to the development of sport and new talent.
For the judo community in Arica, this new center isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of perseverance and a platform for continued growth. It provides a stable base for training, competition, and the development of future generations of judokas, potentially paving the way for increased representation on the international stage. The facility’s opening signifies a renewed focus on supporting local sports and nurturing the athletic potential of Arica’s youth.
The next step for the Arica Judo Association will be to fully utilize the new facility and continue building on its existing success. The association is expected to announce upcoming training schedules and competition opportunities in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to the Arica Judo Association’s official channels for further updates.
What are your thoughts on this new facility? Share your comments below and let us recognize what So for the future of judo in Arica!
