Judo Canada is happy to announce that the analysis of submissions to host the Canadian Open Championships has come to an end, and that the host city has been chosen: the event will be hosted by the City of Edmonton for the next three years. Numerous cities were considered, but the support from Explore Edmonton, the City of Edmonton and the University of Alberta was a major asset in the decision-making process for Judo Canada. “We are ecstatic to welcome athletes from across the country to Edmonton for the Judo Open Nationals in May 2019, 2020 and 2021” said Lindsay Harrison, Director of Edmonton Events. “Edmonton is proud to contribute to the development of amateur athletes and to the sport of judo in our city.”

“Judo Alberta is a very proactive organization. They are aware that hosting such a big national event has an impact on the expertise of their teams and volunteers, and that it represents a positive effect on the economy and the heritage for the long-term development of judo in their province. The savings for the parents, the clubs and the provincial association will be invested in larger-scale competitions, which is a significant asset for the development of young judokas at the international level,” explained Nicolas Gill, CEO and Director of High Performance of Judo Canada.

The event will take place in the Van Vliet Complex at the University of Alberta. Christine Legault, Associate Director at the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation at the University of Alberta, said: “The University of Alberta is very excited to play host to Canadian Open Judo Championships for the next three years. The Universiade Pavilion offers a large open space layout with tons of seating capacity. The atmosphere and expertise on campus makes the University the perfect venue for this event.”

Kelly Thornton, from the local organizing committee, added: “The Edmonton judo community is proud to host the Canadian National Open Judo Championships for 2019–2021. We have seen firsthand, through Calgary’s hosting of the 2016-18 Championships, what hosting this prestigious event does for the local judo experience. The event will bring over 700 judokas to our city to compete for a national title.

Edmonton is experienced in hosting major judo events, such as the Edmonton International Judo Championship, held each year in March at the West Edmonton Mall Ice Palace. The city has also hosted the 2015 Pan American Judo Championships, as well as the 2011 Senior Nationals and 2002 Junior Nationals. The experience and enthusiasm of the local volunteers will guarantee a successful event. Each of our partners brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, and we greatly appreciate their support. Finally, I couldn’t go without thanking the Government of Alberta: without their support and financial contribution, it wouldn’t be possible to organize such a great event.”

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Written by Sarah Mailhot for Judo Canada

Information:
Patrick Esparbès
Chief Operating Officer
(514) 668-6279
p.esparbes@judocanada.org