After months without local competitions, the fourth edition of Judoclub Sonkei’s international invitational tournament has revitalized competitive judo in the region. The event featured 110 matches on a single judo mat, providing athletes with their first opportunity in months to gain competitive experience on home soil.
This tournament arrived at a critical juncture, as the last locally organized judo competition dated back to June of the previous year. For numerous competitors, this marked their first official appearance in many months, making the event particularly significant for their athletic development.
Regional Exchange Initiative
The competition forms part of an ongoing exchange program between Judoclub Sonkei and French Guiana’s CSAB club. What began in 2015 as an initiative by coaches Shies Madhar and Eric Emanuel has evolved into a regional platform combining athletic development, cultural exchange, and international friendship.
CSAB traveled to Suriname with 38 judokas, joined by competitors from Judoclub de Guyane and Judoclub Jigoro Kano. Sonkei fielded 27 competitors, while Jigoro Kano participated with a select team of seven athletes. The diverse participation underscored the tournament’s growing importance within the regional judo community.
Beyond Competition
According to organizers, the exchange program focuses on more than medal counts. Young judokas gain international experience, learn to handle competitive pressure, and engage with different languages and cultures. Simultaneously, family members and supporters in Suriname can closely observe their athletes’ development.
The extended period without competitions made this edition particularly meaningful. The invitational tournament finally provided a competitive platform where judokas could measure their progress and sharpen their competitive rhythm.
Technical Excellence on Display
Spectators witnessed technically refined judo with multiple high-level ippons. Among girls under 15, Jade Bougeunon of Sonkei received the award for most beautiful ippon, while Gariel Soemo earned recognition among the boys.
In the Cadets and U21 categories, Juan Swedo of Judoclub Jigoro Kano impressed with varied and technically pure judo. Among female Cadets, Seraya Sylvestre received special distinction for her performance.
Medal Standings
CSAB topped the overall standings with 11 gold, 14 silver, and 8 bronze medals. Sonkei followed with 5 gold, 4 silver, and 11 bronze medals. Judoclub Jigoro Kano secured 3 gold, 2 silver, and 3 bronze medals, while Judoclub de Guyane claimed 1 silver and 1 bronze medal.
For Judoclub Sonkei, this tournament serves as preparation for upcoming international challenges, including CSAB’s All Female Tournament on March 7, 2026, in Cayenne and the Copa das Fronteras on May 30, 2026, in the Brazilian border town of Oiapoque.
Through this exchange program, the club aims not only to develop competitive judokas but also to equip young people with skills that hold lasting value beyond the sport itself.