The 2024 Las Vegas World Judo Championships for Veterans concluded with Brazil emerging at the top of the overall standings. France closely followed, amassing an impressive 14 gold, 18 silver, and 20 bronze medals. Among European nations, 19 countries claimed at least one gold medal, with notable victories from Finland, Denmark, and Romania. The veteran athletes displayed remarkable skill and sportsmanship, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended and underscoring the passion and dedication that continue to define judo across generations.
Armen BAGDASAROV, IJF Head Referee Director, supervised the refereeing matters during this world veteran championships;
It was a great event indeed with a beautiful atmosphere throughout the competition, mixing all generations. We must remember the friendship that prevailed among everyone. Our veterans showed what judo is all about. You can fight on the tatami but respect each other all the same. From a refereeing point of view we invited many new referees. They represent a new generation. The best ones will be invited to join the World Judo Tour as well, where they will gain more experience.
Mike TAMURA, IJF Sport Director, had a really good feeling about the event too;
The venue was excellent and Las Vegas was a great destination for our veterans. I think that they enjoyed their time here a lot. The veteran categories are growing in popularity and the level has risen significantly this year. The level of judo was excellent and it was good to see former champions taking part. Las Vegas is definitely something we will build on.
Last but not least, Denis Weisser, Chair of the IJF Veterans Commission, gave his final feedback on the event;
This championships in Las Vegas was the biggest ever veterans world championships. It was very successful both for men and women, as well as for the coaches, the referees and the organisers. The level is rising every year. We are on our way to making judo a lifelong experience. The atmosphere was fantastic and offered many opportunities to everyone to meet old and new friends. I am really happy about it. I want to thank everyone who was involved with the organisation and its success. It was an outstanding judo festival and I am looking forward to the next edition.
At the end of day one the IJF Veterans Commission honoured those athletes who have won these championships at least ten times, this included our very own Hendrik KOPPE (NED) and Farhad RAJABLI (AZE). View all results via judotv.com.
Sources: IJF / USA Judo
Images: IJF – Kulumbegashvili Tamara / USA Judo
Author: Szandra Szogedi