The presentation attracted numerous high-ranking officials from the IJF and European Judo Union, alongside representatives from the Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo.
The ceremony began with remarks from Envic Galea, Chair of the IJF Academy, who emphasised the importance of preserving the values associated with judo kata and discussed the project's overarching goals. Jean Luc Rouge, 10th Dan and the IJF's International Development and Promotion Director, expressed his strong support for an initiative that seeks to maintain the authenticity of judo kata.
Dr Laszlo Toth, IJF Vice President and EJU President, praised the project, noting that similar efforts are underway in Europe. The event also featured Dr Tibor Kozsla, head of the institution, and Florin Daniel Lascau, IJF Head Referee Director.
Chikara Kariya from the Kodokan Judo Institute shared insights on the history of kata in judo, explaining the original purpose established by Jigoro Kano Shihan to teach foundation techniques and principles to beginners. He expressed full backing from the Kodokan for this initiative.
Dr Slavisa Bradic, IJF Education Director, highlighted the project's main objectives through a presentation that focused on adapting judo kata to suit various age groups and requirements while maintaining cultural and traditional integrity through systematic approaches. By appropriately adapting and educating judoka, one aim remains to safeguard the original values of judo for generations to come.
The practical segment began with a demonstration of nage-no-kata by Giulia Quintavalle and Daniela Krukower, followed by performances from Dr Slavisa Bradic and Mark Huizinga. The Hungarian Judo Federation's youngest members and their coaches showcased methods and values of kata tailored to children and the youth.
Tina Trstenjak and Dr Slavisa Bradic presented an engaging demonstration of self-defence techniques featuring Kodokan-goshin-jutsu. The presentation also included kata adapted for older individuals with specific objectives, highlighting ju-no-kata and itsutsu-no-kata, demonstrated by Makishi Yoshiharu and Dr Slavisa Bradic. Another segment focused on safe falling techniques demonstrated by Professor Attilio Sacripanti.
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates in celebration of World Judo Day.