Libreville, Gabon — 17 January 2026 (AGP) – The 15th International Champions Tournament in Judo showcased the burgeoning talent pool in Gabon, with over 400 judokas participating in the event held at the Oloumi Gymnasium.
The competition, organized by the Judo Club l’Académie, highlighted the growing popularity of judo in the country, attracting a delegation from the Ivory Coast, according to the Agence Gabonaise de Presse.
The tournament, which has been a staple in Gabon’s sporting calendar for 14 years, served as a platform for young judokas to display their skills.
The Judo Club l’Académie’s President, Maître Michel Ngome Ndong, expressed satisfaction with the event, noting the joy of the participants and the discovery of judo talent in Gabon. “I have not put pressure on the children; they had fun and we have won medals. We will continue to work hard, “Ngome Ndong.
The competition revealed new talents across various categories, with the most meritorious athletes receiving gold and silver medals. Maëly Arielle -Divine Koné Kikphan, a judokate from the Ivory Coast’s Judo Jujitsu Club Bonheur Divin Faya, expressed confidence in her performance, saying, “I was not sure of winning the gold medal because my opponents were really strong, but with patience, I achieved my goal.”
The 14th edition of the tournament, also held at the Oloumi Gymnasium, saw over 400 athletes from more than 30 clubs participate.
The Judo Club l’Académie emerged as the top performer, winning 13 gold medals, followed by the Judo Club Cité des Ailes with 8 gold medals, and Judo Club Manga DFIP with 5 gold medals.
According to Global Inter Infos, the tournament has seen a consistent increase in participation, with the 14th edition having the highest number of participants yet.
The event has become a significant platform for young judo talents in Gabon, with the Judo Club l’Académie leading in organizing and promoting the sport.
Further details are expected regarding the outcomes of this year’s tournament, which is anticipated to continue fostering talent and promoting judo in Gabon.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
