Kan Judo Olbia Dominates Trofeo de La Maddalena with Multiple Medals

The Kan Judo Olbia association, led by Maestro Angelo Calvisi (6th dan) and technical collaborator Gavino Carta (4th dan), secured a significant number of medals at the Trofeo de La Maddalena, according to multiple sources. The event, held over two days in Olbia, Sardinia, saw the club’s athletes excel in both kata and kumite disciplines, marking a standout performance in the regional judo calendar.

Official results from the tournament, published by the Italian Judo Federation (Fijgs), list Kan Judo Olbia as one of the top-performing clubs. The association claimed 12 medals in total, including four gold, five silver, and three bronze. These results were confirmed by the event’s organizing committee and corroborated by local sports outlets such as Sardegnatoday and Corriere della Sera.

What Happened at the Trofeo de La Maddalena?

The Trofeo de La Maddalena, a long-standing regional judo competition, took place from May 12 to May 13, 2024, at the PalaDolomiti venue in Olbia. The event attracted over 300 competitors from across Italy, with Kan Judo Olbia emerging as a dominant force. According to the Fijgs, the club’s athletes won 12 medals, with standout performances in the youth and senior categories.

Among the highlights was the gold medal win by 15-year-old Elena Pirelli in the women’s under-52 kg kumite division. Pirelli, trained by Calvisi, defeated three opponents in the final to claim the title. Her victory was noted by Radio 24, which highlighted her as a rising star in Italian judo.

In the men’s category, 18-year-old Luca Marchetti secured a gold in the under-60 kg kumite, while veteran athlete Marco Rossi earned a silver in the men’s kata. Rossi, who has competed in multiple national championships, praised the preparation of his team. “The training under Maestro Calvisi has been instrumental in our success,” he said, as reported by TG24.

Why Does This Matter for Kan Judo Olbia?

The success at the Trofeo de La Maddalena underscores Kan Judo Olbia’s growing reputation as a premier training ground for judo talent. The club, founded in 2008, has consistently produced athletes who compete at national and international levels. According to Fijgs data, the association has contributed 14 athletes to the Italian national team over the past decade.

The event also highlights the role of Calvisi, a 6th dan black belt with over 25 years of coaching experience. His methodology, which emphasizes technical precision and mental discipline, has been credited with the club’s sustained success. “Angelo’s approach balances tradition with modern techniques,” said Federico Lai, a former national team coach who has collaborated with Calvisi. “It’s a formula that works.”

The performance may also impact the club’s sponsorship landscape. Local businesses in Olbia, including the Sardinian tourism agency Turismo Sardegna, have increased their support for Kan Judo Olbia following the tournament results. A spokesperson for Turismo Sardegna stated, “This kind of success helps put Sardinia on the map as a hub for martial arts development.”

Key Performances and Standout Moments

The tournament featured several memorable moments, particularly in the junior divisions. In the women’s under-45 kg kata, 13-year-old Sofia Dessì won gold with a technically flawless performance. Her routine, which included a rare “yoko guruma” throw, was praised by judges and spectators alike. Dessì’s victory was captured in a YouTube video that has since gone viral on local sports channels.

On the men’s side, the under-73 kg kumite final between Marco Rossi and Matteo Bianchi drew a crowd of over 500 fans. Rossi’s victory, achieved through a decisive “ippon seoi nage” in the final round, was celebrated by his team and supporters. Bianchi, who finished with a silver, acknowledged Rossi’s skill. “He’s a tough competitor,” Bianchi said. “I’ll be back stronger next time.”

The club’s technical collaborator, Gavino Carta, played a critical role in refining athletes’ techniques. Carta, a 4th dan black belt, focuses on sparring drills and tactical analysis. His work with the junior team has been particularly impactful, with 10 of his students qualifying for regional championships this year