Royan Judo Club Faces Dojo Dilemma Despite Olympic Funding

The ROC Judo club in Royan, France, continues to seek a permanent, adequate training facility despite receiving support from the French Judo Federation’s 1,000 Dojos program, initiated in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

From Champlain to Landry: A Shrinking Space

Currently operating out of the Landry gymnasium after being displaced from their previous location at Champlain – which was sold – the club is making do, but hopes for a dedicated dojo. Founded in 1951, the club fondly remembers its Champlain location, where they had 200 meters squared of tatamis, an area for administration and reception and even a weight room, according to long-time member and current president, Hervé Adam.

A temporary relocation to the dojo in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer was necessary following an incident in November 2024, before the City of Royan provided space at the Landry gymnasium.

Challenges at Landry Gymnasium

However, the Landry gymnasium presents its own challenges. The training area has been reduced to 150 square meters of tatami mats. And again, certain parts are not usable by adults, because of the highly low ceiling in places, noted Anne Pavageau, a former president who remains actively involved with ROC Judo.

Fortunately, the French Judo Federation provided foam reinforcements to protect the walls and ceiling arches, a benefit of the 1,000 Dojos program, which also relieved the City of Royan of that expense.

Cosec Option Falls Through

Financial Support Not Enough

“The federation was ready to go even further. Up to 150,000 euros of financial participation in work.”

Hervé Adam, President of ROC Judo

Despite the financial assistance, Hervé Adam expressed disappointment that the funds weren’t enough to fully realize a dedicated dojo within the Cosec gymnasium. Discussions with the City of Royan, the owner of Cosec, and the Cordouan general high school, which uses the space during the day, were unsuccessful.

Adam expressed surprise that neighboring towns like Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, Saujon, and Semussac have dojos, but not a ‘sporty and active’ town like Royan.

The ROC Judo club’s situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local sports organizations in securing adequate facilities, even with national-level support. The club remains hopeful for a future where they can train in a dojo truly worthy of their long history and dedication to the sport.