When athletes arrive at a championship, they expect everything to be ready. From airport transfers and accommodation to accreditation and competition schedules, countless details must come together. For those responsible for delivering the event, however, the work begins long before the first contest. Sergiu Oleinic understands both sides of the sport. Having represented Portugal at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, he now contributes to judo in a different capacity, helping to organise major international competitions.
A challenge that began in March
Preparations for the European Veterans Judo Championships required months of coordination, particularly in managing the needs of individual participants. “I was responsible for logistics, particularly transport, accommodation and communication with participants. Since March, we have been in constant contact throughout the preparations for this event,”Sergiu explained.
Unlike cadet, junior or senior competitions, where communication is generally managed through national federations or clubs, veterans’ events involve considerably more direct contact with athletes. “In veterans’ judo, communication is practically one-to-one. Over the last three weeks, most of my time was spent answering emails. There were many nights when I worked until the early hours of the morning because I didn’t want to leave anyone without a reply.”Balancing these demands with his professional and family responsibilities made the final weeks particularly challenging.
Record participation, new demands
With an unprecedented number of entries, the organising team faced logistical challenges on a scale not previously experienced at the championships. “It was a huge challenge. The European Judo Union had never organised a European Veterans Championships with so many athletes,” he emphasised. One of the team’s priorities was to streamline accreditation and avoid unnecessary delays upon arrival. “We started the event with practically 95% of participants having their payments confirmed and their documentation ready, which made the whole process much easier.”
Portimão itself proved an excellent choice of host city, offering suitable facilities, accommodation and favourable weather conditions. “We are in an excellent tourist destination, with good hotels, and the weather helped us enormously. Overall, everyone is happy with the conditions and the services we provided.”
Experience makes the difference
For Sergiu, successfully delivering an event of this magnitude depends heavily on the knowledge and coordination of those involved. “To organise an event at this level, you need experience, and experience comes from doing things. We have to thank the Federation’s leadership for continuing to take on these challenges and allowing us to grow as a team.”
Although relatively small, the Portuguese organising team was able to draw on expertise developed through hosting previous international competitions. “We have key people in different areas, with a great deal of experience. Even though we are a relatively small team, we are able to respond to the challenges that arise.”The efforts were reflected in the feedback received from participants. “I have spoken to Portuguese and international athletes and, overall, everyone is satisfied. Many have told us that everything here was clearly explained and well organised.”
An unexpected advantage
The championships’ revised dates initially raised concerns, particularly because of their proximity to the World Veterans Championships. Organisers feared that participation might suffer as a result. “When we agreed to organise these championships, we knew that changing the date could lead to fewer participants but exactly the opposite happened.”
The timing ultimately worked in the event’s favour, coinciding with school holidays in several European countries and allowing athletes to combine competition with family travel. “We saw many athletes accompanied by their children, parents and other family members. What initially seemed like a less-than-ideal date actually worked out very well.”
A shared sense of pride
Looking back on the championships, Sergiu was particularly grateful to the athletes who made the journey to Portugal. “I want to thank all the athletes for coming and for choosing our event. It makes us extremely proud.”He also acknowledged the commitment of his colleagues, whose efforts were essential to delivering the competition. “We were only able to meet all these challenges because we have highly experienced people in different areas. The team worked tirelessly.”
For Sergiu, the experience offered another perspective on the sport that once took him to the Olympic Games. This time, rather than competing for a medal, his contribution was measured by the success of the event and the experience of those taking part. The championships may have ended but the work behind their delivery deserves recognition too. After all, not every achievement in judo takes place on the tatami.
