In a recent article, the Spanish press has highlighted the benefits of including children and young people with disabilities, including those with a visual impairment, in judo.

Focussing on the work of Spanish Blind Sports Federation coach Gabriel Vera, known as Lito, over the past 25 years, the article tells the story of just a few of the youngsters with disabilities Gabriel has integrated in his training. It points out how judo training and competitions help to raise the judoka's self-esteem and confidence, and learn life skills to overcome the difficulties of everyday life.

Among Gabriel's pupils is three-time Paralympian Abel Vázquez, who competed in Rio in the under 90kg category.

Click on the links above to read the article in Spanish or English.

For more information on judo for people with a visual impairment in Spain contact [email protected].