A Legacy of Judo: The 57th Manuel Campos Tournament Inspires Young Athletes
The Gran Canaria Sports City (Martín Freire) buzzed with energy on December 21st as 200 young judokas, aged 8 to 13, gathered for the 57th Manuel Campos Judo Tournament, affectionately known as the ‘Copa de Gran Canaria’. This historic event, recognized as Spain’s longest-running judo tournament for its category, showcased not only remarkable sporting talent but also a strong commitment to social duty.
Organized by the Insular Judo Federation of Gran Canaria and sponsored by Campygo, SL, the tournament saw athletes from 19 island clubs compete fiercely yet respectfully. The stands were packed with enthusiastic spectators who cheered on the young competitors, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the tournament served a greater purpose. This year, participants and organizers collaborated to collect non-perishable food items, which will be donated to Cáritas-managed parish centers in Risco San Nicolás and San Francisco, supporting those in need.
The young judokas demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication, showcasing a variety of techniques honed through rigorous training. Notably, 70% of participants were boys, while 30% were girls. This gender distribution was consistent across both the Sub 13 (66% boys, 34% girls) and Sub 11 (73% boys, 27% girls) categories.
While some minor injuries occurred during the intense matches, prompt medical attention ensured the safety and well-being of all participants. These minor setbacks served as a reminder of the physical demands of the sport, but they did not dampen the overall spirit of the event.Manuel Campos,the tournament’s founder,expressed his gratitude to the Federation,judokas,clubs,families,and media for their unwavering support. He highlighted the significance of the 57th edition, not only for its connection to the newly established Gran Canaria Cup but also for its focus on community outreach.
“This year, we are collecting food for those less lucky,” Campos emphasized, “and I hope this initiative will grow even stronger in the 58th edition. as the most critically important grassroots tournament in Spain, we must ensure that young people have the chance to engage in sports. Since I started 57 years ago, nurturing young talent has been paramount, as they are the future of judo.”
Domingo Alfonso, president of the Insular Judo Federation, echoed Campos’ sentiments, stating that witnessing the young judokas compete filled him with immense pride. Alejandro Doblado,the Federation’s technical director,emphasized the tournament’s importance in identifying and nurturing promising young talent in the under 13 and under 11 categories.
The tournament’s impeccable institution ensured a smooth and efficient flow. Three 6×6 meter combat zones were set up, and the format included qualifying rounds with double repechage, clear punctuality rules, and the use of the Golden Score system. This system, where the first judoka to gain an advantage wins, added an element of excitement and strategic thinking to the matches.
The Manuel Campos Tournament, a beacon of grassroots sports in Spain, continues to inspire young athletes and promote the values of respect, discipline, and solidarity. The 57th edition, with its focus on community engagement and its commitment to nurturing future judo stars, reaffirms the tournament’s enduring legacy and its vital role in shaping the future of judo in Gran Canaria.
The 57th Manuel Campos judo tournament: Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow
The echoes of clashing judogis and the roar of the crowd filled the Gran Canaria Sports City (Martín Freire) on December 21st,a symphony of competition and camaraderie that marked another triumphant chapter in the legacy of the Manuel Campos Judo Tournament. Now in its 57th year, this venerable event, fondly dubbed the ‘Copa de Gran Canaria’, stands as a testament to the enduring power of sport to inspire, unite, and shape young lives.
This year’s tournament witnessed an notable display of talent from 200 young judokas, aged 8 to 13, representing 19 clubs across Gran Canaria. The energy was palpable as these budding athletes battled it out on the mats, showcasing their technical prowess, agility, and unwavering determination. But beyond the fierce competition, what truly set this event apart was the palpable sense of respect and sportsmanship that permeated the atmosphere.
The Manuel Campos Tournament is more than just a sporting competition; it is a powerful reminder of the positive impact that judo can have on young individuals and the community as a whole. This commitment to social obligation is evident in the event’s commitment to inclusivity, welcoming athletes from diverse backgrounds and fostering a spirit of unity through sport.
The organizers, the Insular Judo Federation of Gran Canaria, deserve immense credit for their dedication to preserving this heritage event and ensuring its continued success. Their partnership with Campygo, SL demonstrates the crucial role of sponsors in supporting grassroots sport and nurturing future generations of athletes.
The 57th Manuel Campos Judo Tournament was a resounding success, not only for its sporting spectacle but also for its unwavering commitment to the values of respect, discipline, and community engagement. As these young athletes move forward in their judo journeys, carrying with them the lessons learned and the friendships forged at the ‘Copa de Gran Canaria’, the future of judo in Gran Canaria looks brighter than ever.
This event serves as a model for other youth sports organizations, highlighting the importance of celebrating tradition while fostering a culture of inclusivity and sportsmanship within the competitive arena.
Let the discussion begin! What are your thoughts on the role of community and tradition in youth sports? How can events like the Manuel Campos Judo Tournament inspire future generations of athletes?
