Polish Judo Federation Celebrates 60 years of History

Last weekend, the Polish Judo Federation celebrated its 60th anniversary in Warsaw. Polish Judo Federation President President Jacek Zawadka hosted various distinguished guests in the world of judo and Polish sports.

The most important heroes of the evening were the judoka, especially the medalists of the world's largest events. The group of Olympic medalists was represented by Antoni Zajkowski, Olympic silver medallist in 1972. Many world and European medalists were also invited to join on the stage. Great coach, Ryszard Zieniawa, received the 9 Dan. During his speech, he remembered "how the Poles defeated the Japanese and how they won the 2nd place in the team classification at the Games in Seoul".

During the gala, films about Polish judo, history of our discipline at the Olympics, World Championships and European Championships were presented.

Polish Judo have raised a few sporting heroes such as double Olympic Champion Waldemar Legien (1988-1992) and 1996 Olympic Champion Pawel Nastula. Nastula was also double World Champion in 1995 and 1997 and together with Rafal Kubacki they were the face of Polish Judo. Heavyweight Kubacki was World Champion in 1993 and 1997. Beata Maksymow was a famous heavyweight judoka in the women’s division being world champion in 1993 and 1999.

In total Poland celebrated 19 European titles between 1975 and 2007, ten years ago. Last year the European Championships were held in Warsaw. The Polish women captured the European team title in 2016 in Kazan.

Watch the Polish Judo page on JudoInside with all successes.