MUTUAL GROWTH

As the Tbilisi Grand Slam 2025 wrapped up last Sunday, having welcomed athletes from 52 nations, nearly half of those countries chose to stay behind in Georgia to participate in an international training camp. This continuation beyond the tournament highlights not only the competitive spirit of judo but also the deep value placed on collaboration and mutual growth.

Georgia has a rich and longstanding history in judo and is proudly recognised as one of the sport’s leading nations. Its athletes are known for their strength, techniques and passion, qualities that have helped shape Georgia’s reputation on the world stage.

Randori, or free practice, is essential for any judoka’s development. International training camps provide a rare and valuable opportunity for athletes from different countries to train together, share experiences, and learn from one another. For both local judoka and visiting delegations, it’s a chance to grow technically and culturally, deepening respect and understanding through the shared language of judo.

Mr. David Kevkhishvili, First Vice-President of the Georgian Judo Federation, expressed his appreciation for the continued presence of so many international teams and took a moment to reflect on the philosophy that underpins the sport:

“It is important that Georgian judo continues to develop. The fact that so many countries are staying behind for the training camp is appreciation on the one hand, and on the other hand it’s a chance to give others the opportunity to develop with us. This is in line with one of the principles of Judo, Jita Kyoei, mutual welfare for oneself and others. As the years go by, I hope that the numbers will grow even more.”

The spirit of Jita Kyoei is clearly alive in the Judo Academy Tbilisi, as athletes push one another to new heights, united by a common respect for the art and philosophy of judo.

Image: Georgian Judo Federation

Author: Szandra Szogedi