A Festive Celebration of Judo: The XXIV ‘Ciudad de Avilés’ Christmas Tournament
The XXIV edition of the ‘Ciudad de Avilés’ Christmas Tournament concluded wiht resounding success, solidifying its position as a cherished tradition in the judo community. Attracting 350 judokas from prominent clubs across Asturias, including Judo Club Coruña, the tournament showcased the sportS enduring appeal and competitive spirit.
Carlos Fernández, a key organizer, expressed his satisfaction with the turnout, noting that the event drew a critically important number of participants considering the busy holiday season. He highlighted the extraordinary performance of Judo Club Avilés,which dominated across various weight categories,demonstrating the club’s strength and depth.
While the tournament wasn’t a primary focus for Judo Club Avilés,given their preparations for upcoming competitions,the team’s performance was encouraging. Coach Ricardo García observed that the non-competitive nature of the event allowed judokas to showcase their skills in a relaxed environment. He was particularly pleased with the performance of athletes like iván González, Saúl Fernández, and illán Gutiérrez, who displayed a newfound confidence and composure.
This year’s tournament also marked a significant change in venue, moving to the spacious La Magdalena pavilion. Fernández praised the new location, emphasizing the improved scheduling and relaxed atmosphere it provided. While growth remains a possibility, the tournament’s primary focus remains on fostering camaraderie and celebrating the sport during the festive season.
Adding a special touch to the event was the twinning ceremony between Judo Club Avilés and Judo Club Coruña. This symbolic gesture, commemorating the 25th anniversary of Judo Club Avilés and the 50th anniversary of Judo club Coruña, highlighted the enduring bond between the two clubs. Former captains, coaches, and presidents from both teams participated in the ceremony, which included the exchange of a commemorative black belt and a painting inscribed with the powerful message “Brotherhood. Jita kyoei. Mutual help and prosperity.” This gesture underscored the shared values and spirit of collaboration that define the judo community.
A Festive Throwdown: Reflecting on the XXIV ‘Ciudad de Avilés’ Judo Tournament
Welcome back, fight fans, to another installment of “On the Mat”! Today we have a very special guest, the legendary judoka, three-time national champion, and esteemed coach, Manuel “Manny” Rodriguez.Manny, thank you for joining us.
Manny: My pleasure to be here. it’s always great to chat Judo!
This season saw the incredibly successful XXIV “Ciudad de Avilés” Christmas Tournament, an event you know well. Over 350 judokas from across Asturias descended upon the La Magdalena pavilion for a party of sport and spirit.What were your initial thoughts on reading about the tournament’s success?
Manny: Firstly, kudos to Carlos Fernández and the entire organizing team for pulling off such a fantastic event, especially during the holiday season. 350 participants is truly impressive.It speaks volumes about the enduring appeal of Judo and the dedication of the athletes.
Host: Absolutely. The article highlights Judo Club Avilés’ dominant performance, which certainly wasn’t a focus given their upcoming competitions. Does that surprise you, Manny, considering the ‘relaxed’ nature of the event?
Manny: There’s a fine line between relaxed and competitive. Irrespective of the context, judokas always have that fire within them. Seeing Ivan, Saul, and Illan shine is encouraging, and Coach Garcia is right, pulling off performances like this in a non-pressure environment demonstrates newfound confidence. That’s what good coaching cultivates, and it bodes well for their future competitions.
Host: I’m curious, having seen the sport evolve over time, what are your thoughts on the notion of fostering camaraderie alongside competition?
Manny: It’s the cornerstone of Judo! We practise “Jita Kyoei,” mutual prosperity, and this tournament embodies that spirit perfectly.Organizing a Judo tournament during the holidays, reminiscing about the sport, sharing stories and laughs… it’s essentially a big Judo family reunions.
Host: Speaking of family, the twinning ceremony between Judo Club avilés and Judo Club Coruña felt particularly poignant. As someone deeply involved in the Judo community, what did that gesture symbolize for you?
They did this during this tournament marking the 25th anniversary of Judo Club Avilés and the 50th of Judo club Coruña.
manny: That’s beautiful. It’s about recognizing shared legacies, celebrating milestones, and underscoring the bonds we forge through Judo. Clubs rise and fall, participants come and go, but the spirit of Judo perseveres.
Host: Now, if our readers could rewind the clock and make improvements to the tournament, what would be their suggestions? Let’s hear it!
Manny: For me, maybe making the event multi-day could further amplify the celebratory spirit. It could include workshops,seminars,or even an exhibition bout featuring some legends!
Host: Manny,that’s an intriguing take! We definitely have some food for thought there. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Readers, let us know your thoughts in the comments. What resonated with you most about this year’s “Ciudad de Avilés” Christmas Tournament? What would you add or change? Let’s discuss!
