The Paralympic Games have been in full swing for a week, but today is the day the judo tournament begins. The world’s best para-athletes will meet over the next three days on the tatami of the Arena Champ-de-Mars.

More than an hour before the start of the first contests, the stands are already filling up with spectators who are all waiting for the judoka’s exploits.

We are used to seeing the competitors tread the tatami before the start of the competitions. For some, it is important to feel things. This aspect is perhaps even more important here for the J1 and J2 judoka, as sensations are crucial when you have to move without your sense of sight. This morning, there were many of them walking the two competition surfaces on which the preliminary rounds and later the final block will take place.

Rocio and her coach

If there was tension, of course, and stress, there were also many smiles and joy to be present in Paris. A few years ago, the IJF met Rocio Silvana Ledesma Dure, during the filming of the episode Judo for the World – Argentina. Blind and passionate about judo, her dream was to participate in the Paralympic Games. At the time this dream seemed to be far away. Five years later, it is now realised.

She was on the tatami this morning and a big smile lit up her face. Rocia perfectly embodies the spirit of these Games with her big smile and the hope anchored in her body to perform in the incredible atmosphere of the Arena Champ-de-Mars. That is all we can wish her and the 145 other athletes from 43 countries engaged in the tournament. Good luck everyone!