Belgium joins the Adapted Judo Tour as Vandecaveye backs Kortrijk weekend

Kortrijk is getting ready for a weekend that aims to feel bigger than a regular competition. On 11–12 April 2026, Judo Belgium and the European Judo Union (EJU), together with the City of Kortrijk and Judo Kortrijk, will stage the Triglav Insurance Get Together Tournament at the Lange Munte Sports Centre.

This is an Adapted Judo event, designed as an inclusive competition for athletes with intellectual, physical, visual and hearing impairments. Judoka from across Europe will arrive not only to test themselves on the mat, but to connect in an environment built around accessibility and support.

It also marks a first for the host nation: Belgium is entering the European Adapted Judo Tour for the first time. The project has a powerful face too, with Belgian icon and Olympic medallist Gella Vandecaveye serving as patron. Her record is stacked with European success: seven European titles, a first world title in 1993, the 1999 European Judoka of the Year award, plus Olympic silver in 1996 and bronze in 2000.

For Belgium, this is a step into a wider European movement.

Vandecaveye joined a mat-based press conference ahead of the event and also took part in a preparation session on the tatami. She highlighted what adapted judo can offer beyond medals: a chance to build health, grow personally and avoid being pushed to the margins. Drawing on what she has seen around Special Olympics, she stressed that participation can matter more than winning, especially for children.

Alongside the contests, Judo Vlaanderen is investing in learning and long-term development. Working with EJU specialists, an educational clinic will be organised for judoka and coaches, focusing on teaching methods for athletes with disabilities. An open inclusion training session is also planned, reinforcing the message that judo is for everyone.

The tournament will be free to attend throughout the weekend, and Vandecaveye is expected to be present on Sunday.

Source: EJU_News