Organising an international level judo competition is always an adventure, as there are so many things to validate and departments to co-ordinate. The challenge is even greater when there are 16 sports that need to be co-ordinated, such is the remit of a ‘games.’ The least we can say is that the result lived up to expectations.
The field of play and its look-and-feel have reached as high as any major international sporting event could. The stadium is beautifully decorated and the welcome is warm. We are witnessing, without hesitation, a wonderful gathering of young athletes who, for many of them, are participating for the first time in their career in a competition of this scale.
Dr Lisa Allan, IJF Secretary General explained, "The venue looks very good. It is nice to share it with other sports as well. The concept of this games is very interesting. Personally speaking, it reminds me a lot, since I was the SportAccord Sport Director in the past, of games events of years gone by; it's really nice to have all the combat sports and martial arts together for once.
Having the event in Saudi Arabia this year is an important step for the host country. They have made massive progress recently, under the leadership of President Abdulaziz Albassam; we can only applaud them. The development of women's judo is also very impressive. Watching the mixed team from KSA today was something special."
Teodor Pop is the IJF Technical Delegate of the event and he has been working hand in hand with the organisers for many months, "It's the first time that we have taken part in such an event in Saudi Arabia. Despite the challenges, the organisers have done an amazing job to deliver a great competition. Thanks to the commitment of the federation, we can dream of more events coming here; the gate is now open. I am convinced that they can do more. I especially want to underline the exceptional hospitality of the Saudi people. We have discovered a beautiful culture here."
Sport and culture are definitely strongly linked during the World Combat Games 2023. Judo is developing. The event will help reach the next level.