Judo has well and truly returned in France following lockdown. The clubs returned in early September and this weekend sees the return of competition, with club teams from around the nation reuniting.
Not only is Dubrovnik hosting the first Senior European Cup since lockdown, but in France there is another major tournament taking place.
The French National Teams Championships was postponed in March due to the worldwide pandemic, protecting the health and safety of their athletes. Now here they are, back and eager to fight again in the Brest Arena in the port city of Brittany. The men are already in full swing on day one of the tournament and the women will step on the tatami tomorrow.
The European Club Championships are always a tremendous event, with many French clubs in the competition so you can already imagine the spirit and level of the performance that will take place. An incredible 74 teams are battling for that all important Championship title, competition has been reborn.
Of course, as any other competition, obligatory sanitary measures have been adhered to in order to guarantee that these championships take place in safe conditions.
The provisional schedule for the event is provided below and you can watch the tournament at Judo TV Live.
Saturday 3rd October 2020,
Start: 07:00 GMT
Final Blocks: 14:00 GMT
Sunday 4th October 2020
Start: 07:00 GMT
Final Blocks: 13:00 GMT
It is wonderful to see many federations able to host their athletes once again and give back the stage to perform as judo regains a place in the world following lockdown.
Author: Thea Cowen