Tbilisi turns the spotlight on Europe’s rising cadet judoka

Tbilisi is staying in competition mode. Just after Georgia successfully hosted the Senior European Championships, the city is preparing for another international event, this time with the focus firmly on the next generation at the “Millennium Team” Cadet European Cup on 2–3 May.

A total of 362 athletes from 17 countries are set to compete in the Georgian capital. That gives the event a strong international feel, but there is also a clear European dimension, with young judoka getting a valuable chance to test themselves against peers from across the continent.

For cadets, tournaments like this can mean a lot. They offer more than medals or ranking points; they are a place to gain mat time, handle pressure, and understand what international judo really demands. For some athletes, this could be one of the first big moments in a journey that may later lead to major championships.

The stage in Tbilisi now belongs to the next wave of European judo.

Georgian Judo Federation President Levan Nozadze underlined the importance of hosting another international tournament so soon after the senior continental event. He described it as an honour for Tbilisi and stressed how important it is for young athletes to receive opportunities at this level and build experience for the future.

The schedule is split across two days. On Saturday, girls compete in -40, -44, -48 and -52 kg, while boys fight in -50, -55, -60 and -66 kg.

Sunday completes the programme with girls in -57, -63, -70 and +70 kg, and boys in -73, -81, -90 and +90 kg. Fans who want to follow the action can watch the event live on JudoTV.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union