Riga’s Own Valentins Azarovs, 83, Esteemed at Veteran Europeans 2025
Autor: Szandra Szogedi
Zuerst veröffentlicht bei / First published at: Riga’s Own Valentins Azarovs, 83, Esteemed at Veteran Europeans 2025
Valentins Azarovs, who lives and trains in Riga, claimed the title of the eldest competitor at the European Judo Championships Veterans Riga 2025. He competed on the first day of the event and, on the second day, was awarded a commemorative medal set in recognition of his dedication to judo, a tribute to his enduring spirit and a powerful reminder that even at the age of 83, the tatami still welcomes those driven by passion and perseverance.
The Latvian judoka first stepped onto the mat at just 14 and never looked back. Remarkably, he didn’t compete in his first judo tournament until the age of 68, when he entered the Veteran World Championships. Taking the plunge proved worthwhile: he not only won his first medal but also claimed a world title in the process. The former sambo athlete and acrobat now dedicates his sporting passion entirely to judo. During his professional career, Azarovs worked as an engineering constructor. He has been retired from the workforce for some time now but he has no intention of stepping away from the judo mat anytime soon.
Azarovs message to all: “I am truly impressed and very happy. This was certainly a surprise, I didn’t expect this kind of recognition. I still train every day, except on weekends, and I would like to encourage everyone to stay active. Sport is important not just for those who compete, but for everyone. Even if you are not fighting on the tatami, staying involved in sport for as long as possible will improve both your physical and mental wellbeing. It really makes a difference.”
The post Riga’s Own Valentins Azarovs, 83, Esteemed at Veteran Europeans 2025 appeared first on European Judo Union.
