Shanghai Lingang Nicheng Wanda Plaza recently hosted a thrilling display of athleticism, as the 2026 “Hundred Cities, Hundred Battles” National Sports Series Shanghai Station and Yangtze River Delta Judo Classic concluded successfully, bringing together 176 judo participants.
A New Year Begins with Judo Spirit
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The event showcased the dedication of judo enthusiasts ranging in age from 3 to 46, marking a vibrant start to the national sports movement in 2026.
The Shanghai Station, co-sponsored by the China Martial Arts Development Committee and Zhuhai Wanda Commercial Management Group, centered on “communication to enhance and refine the sports spirit.” Organizers created an immersive “sports + business” environment, allowing spectators to experience the dynamism of judo firsthand. On the mat, white judogi blurred as competitors demonstrated both youthful exuberance and seasoned technique, igniting cheers with every strategic move.
A three-year-old competitor completed each action with earnest focus, while a 46-year-old enthusiast displayed unwavering stamina. This age diversity underscored the inclusivity and enduring appeal of national sports. Safety was paramount, with dangerous throwing techniques prohibited in youth categories and professional referees providing real-time guidance.
Competition Details and Fair Play
Competitors were divided into weight classes based on age, ranging from 18 kg to 112 kg to ensure fair matchups. The event adhered to the latest rules of the Chinese Judo Association, utilizing a round-robin format with varied time settings and a golden overtime rule, allowing athletes to fully demonstrate the principles of “making good use of energy and overcoming strength with softness.” Medals and certificates were awarded to the top three in each category, with special recognition given to outstanding referees and organizers.
Participants expressed that the competition fostered both personal growth and a deeper understanding of judo’s core values – “self-prosperity and mutual prosperity.” This spirit, they noted, is rooted in the cultural heritage of Chinese martial arts, emphasizing “property, justice, integrity, and perseverance.”
Organizers focused on popularizing judo through a standardized competition system.
Expanding the Reach of Judo
As the inaugural event of the “Hundred Cities and Hundred Battles” series, the Shanghai Station successfully integrated sports into a commercial setting, reflecting a growing national enthusiasm for athletics. Organizers plan to expand the series to more cities, utilizing a standardized system to promote judo and share the philosophy of “using softness to overcome hardness, and combining hardness and softness” with a wider audience.
The success of the Shanghai event marks not only the awarding of the first crown of the new year but also the continuation of judo’s legacy and the advancement of the national movement. The hope is that this passion and dedication will shine brightly across the country as the “One Hundred Cities, One Hundred Battles” series unfolds.
Original title: “Jiu-Jitsu reflects the original intention, hundreds of cities start a new journey, 2026 “Hundred Cities and Hundreds of Battles” National Judo Championship Shanghai Station ignites the New Year”
Column Editor: Chen Hua Text Editor: Chen Hua
Source: Author: Wei Bing
