Last weekend, Valposchiavo became the center for inclusion and international Judo: The Judo festival, organized by Swiss Adaptive Judo, Special Olympics Switzerland, and the Swiss Judo Federation, welcomed around 200 guests from nine countries – including 65 athletes with cognitive impairments, their coaches, family members, and friends.
The organizing team was thrilled: “The preparation was intense, but the atmosphere at the festival surpassed everything. It was fantastic to see so many happy guests and motivated athletes,” said organizer Cecilia Evenblij. The competition itself not only offered the athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills on the mat but was also a place for exchange, friendship, and personal growth.
Athletes from Ireland, Italy, Austria, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Romania, and Switzerland competed against each other – and showed that Judo knows no boundaries. The festival was deliberately conceived not only as a sporting competition, but also as a meeting place: Old friendships were cultivated, new ones were formed. The focus was on values such as fair play, participation, and community – as well as playfully learning how to deal with victory and defeat.
The Valposchiavo region once again impressed with its hospitality: The municipality of Poschiavo, the Valposchiavo Tourist Office, local sponsors, the Croce Bianca team with catering, and many dedicated volunteers all contributed to making this festival a special experience.
You can find pictures and the rankings here.
Photo credits: WeArePepper/Sebastian Schneider
