Making History in Judo

In a milestone for Spanish judo, Amelia Fernández Cabo, a 50-year-old native of Oviedo, has become the first female to hold the title of world judo judge in three different katas. She achieved this remarkable feat at the Kata World Series held in Gijón. Speaking about her accomplishment, Amelia noted, This certification goes much further than just a sporting credential.

From Judoka to Judge

Amelia’s journey to becoming a world judo judge was long and arduous. She first started practicing judo at the age of seven and later rose to compete at national and international levels, even reaching subcampeona status in Spain. After her competitive career, she transitioned into judo teaching and soon set her eyes on becoming a judge.

To attain this title, one must first become a national and continental judge, pass theoretical and practical exams in English, and prove extensive training. Amelia emphasizes, It’s not a feat just anyone can achieve as it requires being a fourth dan black belt, a national master trainer, and passing various written, technical, and practical tests.

Breaking Barriers

Amelia’s achievement is even more significant because she is the only Spanish woman to hold the highest rank in the three specific katas—katame no kata, juno kata, and koshiki no kata. She explains, Judges are continually evaluated, and to be invited to international events, you must rank among the best.

In 2021, Amelia was the only Spanish woman invited to the European Championships in Riga, a moment she describes as very motivating and a recognition of my work.

Combining Sports and Life

A physiotherapy graduate, Amelia has dedicated her life to judo while also working as an auxiliary nurse. She believes, Athletes learn to manage their time efficiently, so combining sports and life isn’t complicated.

Amelia has passed on her passion through teaching at schools and training monitors. Currently, she serves in the Asturian Judo Federation’s Regional Kata Commission, advocating for women’s visibility in sports.

Promoting Gender Equality

Despite girls’ rising participation in judo, Amelia maintains that there’s still much work to do in decision-making roles within the sport.

According to Amelia, It’s not about taking spaces away from men but rather sharing them to achieve a more balanced representation.

She concludes, My next challenge is to keep paving the way, without locking onto specific goals. I want the younger generations to see that these roles are accessible and possible.

Judo: A Sport for Everyone

Amelia emphasizes judo’s inclusivity, Judo welcomes everyone regardless of age, weight, or build. Though women’s participation has significantly grown, the real challenge remains within the sport’s administration.