Denis Weisser, head of the IJF Veterans Commission is optimistic, “We are expecting the biggest event in veterans history, here in Las Vegas. With over 1400 participants from 68 countries, we are very proud to announce that we have never seen such numbers.”
These championships also mark the return of world level competition to American soil, which is quite symbolic as in four years the Olympic Games will be held not far from here in Los Angeles.
“The world is going through a challenging time and seeing the level of participation this year is heartwarming. It will be a great success, we can guarantee it, both for the veterans judo family and for the entire judo community. I am really looking forward to the competition beginning and to welcoming our old and new friends,” says Weisser.
The year 2024 has been full of events, especially with the world championships in Abu Dhabi and of course the 2024 Olympic Games. “I believe that this world championship for veterans will also be one of the highlights of the season. We have a very good organising team both internationally and locally. Everyone has done everything to ensure that we can deliver a major event. All participants will have a fantastic stay here.”
Given the number of participants, the elimination rounds will take place on 5 tatami, the final rounds on three tatami. The first contests will begin each day at 9am sharp in the Rio Hotel Conference Center. The finals will begin half an hour after the last elimination contests.
Today was dedicated to the registration of the competitors of the first weight categories, those that will be in action during day 1: M6, M7, M8 and M9.
You can follow the competition on all the IJF communication platforms (website, social networks) and the live stream will be available on JudoTV.com.