A complete success in participation in the first edition of the Pepe Merino Judo Trophyheld this Sunday at the Multipurpose Palace of Guadalajaraorganized by the city’s Judo schools in collaboration with the city council.
It was a judo party with multiple non-competitive combats between more than 150 childrenand a special tribute Pepe Merino, who has been promoting this sport in Guadalajara for 60 years and who still today, At 83 years old, he continues teaching at the Aylu Club.
For this reason, Merino received on this day a plaque that is a replica of the Infantado palace, in recognition of his long career and involvement with the development of this sport and the training of the youngest.
Pepe Merino also received a framed the black belt given to him by Rafa Ortega, 16-time champion of Spainas reported by municipal sources in a statement.
Other judo figures were also recognized, such as Quino Ruiz, World champion in 1984, European medalist and participant in the Olympic Games; and Jorge Canomember of the national team and champion of the Zagreb Grand Prix in 2023, both present at the event, and Fran Garrigós, Olympic coach, who was also recognized but could not attend the tribute.
Pepe Merino is the father of José Andrés Merino, international Judo referee and collaborator of THE HERALD OF HENARES.
