Montréal, May 12, 2026 – Following a spectacular 2025 edition, the Open National Judo Championships are set to return to Calgary, Alberta. From May 14 to 17, fans will be treated to top-level judo at the University of Calgary Olympic Oval.

Over the course of the event, 1,100 judokas will hit the tatamis as they vie for the 80 titles up for grabs in the different weight classes. The Championships will bring a record number of judokas to Calgary, representing eleven Canadian provinces and territories, and will once again shine a spotlight on the healthy state of Canadian judo.

“This strong level of participation tells us that the hard work being done across the country is paying off. The involvement of clubs [across Canada] is contributing to the development of our athletes and our sport,” said Nicolas Gill, chief executive officer of Judo Canada.

Year after year, judo fans turn out in large numbers to watch the various matches across all categories at the Open National Championships. Each day of competition yields extraordinary stories, and 2026 will certainly be no exception.

The Championships will open with the Kata and Ne-waza events on Thursday, followed by the age group tournaments the next day, starting with the veteran and U18 categories. The U16 and U21 competitions will take place on Saturday, and the senior events will conclude the tournament on Sunday.

As usual, the Judo Canada Annual Awards and Recognition Gala will take place on Sunday, following the final competitions of the Open National Championships.

“The Gala is an essential event. It allows us to celebrate all the work accomplished over the past year and bring the judo community together,” added Gill, excitement in his voice.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the Championships in person at the Olympic Oval, or via the live webcast at judocanada.tv.

Tickets can be purchased at www.judocanada.org/events/2026-open-national-championships-calgary.

Thank you to our valued sponsors and partners, the local organizing committee, the clubs, and the many volunteers who will make this event a resounding success.

For more information about the Open National Championships, click here.

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Written by Sportcom for Judo Canada

For more information:

Patrick Esparbès
Chief Operating Officer
Judo Canada
(514) 668-6279
[email protected]