Dear OJU Family,

It is with great pride and renewed purpose that I write to you today on behalf of the Oceania Judo Union (OJU) Executive Committee.

Commencing in April 2026, the OJU will formally recommence hosting of our own standalone Continental Oceania Championships event.

The International Judo Federation (IJF) has expressed full confidence in the leadership and capability of our Executive Committee to deliver this initiative. We are grateful for their support and alignment as we enter this new chapter together.

We also take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks to the PanAmerican Judo Confederation (PJC) and President Zegarra Presser for their ongoing support and inclusion of Oceania athletes in the Pan America/Oceania Championships in recent years. Their collaboration has been instrumental in sustaining our athletes’ opportunities on the international stage and continues to reflect the spirit of solidarity across our global judo family.

Why this matters:

Elevated opportunity for athletes: Every judoka in Oceania will now have the opportunity to compete for a continental title—an honour that brings prestige, pride, and personal growth.
Enhanced National Olympic Committee (NOC) engagement and funding: Continental Championships strengthen your case for NOC recognition, support, and funding for both athletes and programs.
Pathway to world-level events: Continental results feed directly into Olympic qualification pathways, helping us better prepare and represent on the world stage.
A platform for growth: This championship is not only a competition—it is a catalyst for development across all facets of our sport, including coaching, officiating, and club participation.

This is our opportunity to reclaim and rebuild judo as a dynamic and unified force across the Oceania region. We recognise the unique challenges and strengths of our nations, and we commit to building a framework that is inclusive, sustainable, and truly regional in character.

In the coming months, we will share further detail on dates, structure, and support available to help your federation prepare. But for now, I ask that you share this announcement with your athletes, coaches, officials, and executive committees - because this is a win for us all.

Thank you for your dedication to our sport. Together, let us rise to meet this opportunity with unity and purpose.

With respect and appreciation,
Kate
President, Oceania Judo Union