Raul CAMACHO has been a fixture on the competition tatami for generations of judoka, and now he is moving on to new pastures and challenges. During the Zagreb Grand Prix, it was a bittersweet feeling as Camacho refereed his last IJF World Tour contest, and upon leaving the tatami, received a standing ovation from his colleagues.
Of course it was full of emotions, like a rollercoaster, difficult to explain by words. When I was walking out the mat for the last time and I could see all my colleagues standing and clapping, wow. I have to admit that maybe some small tear dropped on to the mat. From the other side I was happy to feel that I really gave my best during all these years – despite my mistakes!
It seems supervising will be the next step. It’s an amazing challenge and I will try to learn as quick as possible. I know it is a huge responsibility and I’ll do my best in order to pay back the trust they put in me.
I think my refereeing experience during this two last Olympic cycles will help me in my new role. Of course I know it’s not the same kind of job but it’s pretty close. I’m very happy and lucky that some colleagues did it before me and for sure they can teach me and support me, so they can give some advice and tips in order to make a little bit easier this exciting new challenge.
I’m really thankful for all the people who make it possible for me to continue on this wonderful path. So, from the bottom of my heart, a big thanks!
Author: Thea Cowen