Formerly known as the Judo Festival, JudoFest combines several educational and sporting activities, but the European Judo Union Olympic Training Camp (OTC) and the Porec Cadet Training Camp remain the centrepieces of the programme. Hosted in the Intersport Hall in Zelena Laguna, the camps have attracted more than 600 senior athletes from over 40 countries, alongside 200 cadets eager to test themselves against some of the world's best judoka.
From 8th to 13th June, Olympic medallists, world champions and rising talent share the same tatami, taking advantage of the high-level training environment that has made Poreč one of the most popular destinations on the international circuit.
Olympic champion Barbara Đinović (née Matić), who is expecting her first child in just 3 months, remains closely involved in the activities of the Croatian Judo Federation. "The training is exactly as it should be," she said. "Everyone is working at a high level and that is how we improve the most. It is also wonderful to hear how much people enjoy coming here and how satisfied they are with the organisation."
The combination of demanding training sessions and excellent facilities continues to attract athletes year after year. Accommodation, recovery areas and leisure opportunities are all located within the Plava Laguna resort, allowing participants to focus fully on their preparation.
The Croatian women's national team coach Dragan Crnov highlighted the importance of hosting such an event, "We are delighted to welcome colleagues and friends from all over the world. Our athletes have the opportunity to train with the very best without leaving their own country and it is rewarding to see them making the most of that opportunity."
Among the international stars present is two-time Olympic champion Lukáš Krpálek, a regular visitor to Poreč. "It is always a pleasure to come here," he explained. "The facilities are excellent, everything is close by and after training we can even enjoy the sea. It is also a place where I can come with my family."
The list of elite participants underlines the event's status. The Georgian team is led by 2012 Olympic champion Lasha Shavdatuashvili, alongside world champions Tato Grigalashvili and Eteri Liparteliani. Also training in Poreč are world number one Lara Cvjetko, Germany's Anna Monta Olek, Mexico’s Olympic silver medallist Prisca Awiti Alcaraz and Portuguese double world champion Jorge Fonseca.
Croatia is also strongly represented, with more than 50 senior athletes and around 40 cadets taking part under the supervision of a large national coaching team.
The programme continues beyond the OTC and cadet camp. From 14th to 18th June, additional activities will include training camps for U14 and U16 athletes led by world champion Ákos Braun, inclusive judo sessions, a kata seminar delivered by instructors from the Kodokan, and a family camp for parents with children under ten years old.
With a total participation expected to reach 1,100 people, JudoFest continues to offer a unique blend of elite sport, education, inclusion and family engagement, reinforcing its reputation as one of the highlights on the international judo calendar.
Source: Mario Krvavac