Saint-Marcel, France – Nearly 200 young judokas from across the Saône-et-Loire region had the opportunity to train with Romain Valadier Picard, the 2025 World Judo Championship silver medalist, on Wednesday in Saint-Marcel. The event, held thanks to the collaboration between the Comité Judo 71 and Crédit Agricole, provided a valuable learning experience for aspiring athletes.
The training session, focused on fundamental judo techniques, drew participants from various clubs, including a contingent of twenty judokas from the Alliance Dojo 71, accompanied by their three instructors. Picard, at 23 years classic, has quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the sport, adding the silver medal to a growing list of accomplishments that includes a gold medal at the 2025 Paris Grand Slam and a bronze medal at the 2023 European Championship.
The session itself centered on kumikata – the art of gripping and controlling an opponent’s uniform – and Morote seoi nage, a popular shoulder throw technique. Picard guided the judokas through drills, offering personalized advice and demonstrating proper form. Organizers emphasized the importance of such opportunities for young athletes, hoping to inspire them to dedicate themselves further to the sport.
“It’s about putting stars in their eyes,” a representative from the Comité Judo 71 stated. “These encounters can ignite a passion and motivate them to strive for their own goals.”
The event underscores the ongoing commitment of Crédit Agricole to supporting judo at the grassroots level. The bank has a longstanding partnership with France Judo, sharing values of respect and solidarity, as highlighted in a recent statement from the financial institution. This collaboration aims to foster the development of the sport and broaden its reach across France.
For the Alliance Dojo 71, the training session represented a significant opportunity for their athletes to learn from one of the world’s best. The club’s instructors praised Picard’s approachability and willingness to share his knowledge. The experience is expected to have a lasting impact on the young judokas, providing them with valuable insights and motivation to improve their skills.
The event also served as a reminder of the growing popularity of judo in the Saône-et-Loire region. The Comité Judo 71 continues to function diligently to promote the sport and provide opportunities for athletes of all ages and skill levels. The success of Wednesday’s training session is a testament to their efforts and the enthusiasm for judo within the local community.
The next scheduled event for the Alliance Dojo 71 is a regional competition on May 15th, where the judokas will have the chance to place their newly acquired skills to the test. Fans can follow the club’s progress and upcoming events on their Facebook page.
Archysport will continue to follow the progress of Romain Valadier Picard and the development of judo in France.
Keep reading
