Held simultaneously at the Combat Sports Training Centre on the island of São Tomé and at the Judo Global Headquarters on the island of Príncipe, the event allowed athletes from both islands to compete on the same day. This innovative format reflects the association's commitment to making judo accessible across the entire nation and strengthening opportunities for young people to participate in the sport.
One of the highlights of the event was the competition debut of athletes from the Ponta do Sol Judo School on Príncipe Island. Their participation represents another important milestone in the expansion of judo into local communities and illustrates the Association's determination to create opportunities for children and young people, regardless of where they live.
More than a sporting event, the Independence Open celebrated the educational values that lie at the heart of judo: respect, courage, friendship, discipline and perseverance. Through initiatives such as this, the Judo Global of São Tomé and Príncipe Association continues to use judo as a powerful tool for education, social inclusion and personal development while promoting healthy lifestyles throughout the country.
Association President André Mendes Rosa underlined the significance of the event, "The Independence Open shows that judo continues to grow steadily in our country. It is especially rewarding to see more girls taking part in competitions, new judo schools joining the competitive calendar, and young people from different communities enjoying the same opportunities. This is the path we want to continue building; a stronger, more inclusive sport that reaches every part of São Tomé and Príncipe."
The event was organised with the support of the International Judo Federation, the Faya Foundation and the Regional Government of Príncipe, together with valuable in-kind contributions from local partners, whose support helped ensure the success of the competition.
