Judoka Nuno Carvalho, an athlete from Judo Clube de Ponta Delgada, was honored by the Ponta Delgada Municipal Council with a unanimously approved vote of congratulation. The distinction celebrates his victory as European Veterans Champion in the M3 -73 kg category at the 2026 European Judo Veterans Championship, held from October 22-25 at the Portimão Arena in the Algarve.
This gold medal marks the second consecutive European title for the athlete from Ponta Delgada, who had previously won the European championship in 2025 in Latvia. The achievement comes just weeks after winning the world veterans' title in September of this year in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The President of the Ponta Delgada Municipal Council, Pedro Nascimento Cabral, highlighted the significance of this sporting achievement, stating, "Being world champion and two-time European champion in the same year is a sporting feat of enormous significance, reflecting the quality, determination, and spirit of overcoming of Nuno Carvalho. It is a path of excellence that greatly honors Ponta Delgada and the Azores and demonstrates how dedication and continuous work allow one to reach the highest levels of international competition".
The European Judo Veterans Championship brought together 1152 athletes from 37 countries. Nuno Carvalho showcased his technical skill, experience, and ability to overcome challenges in this highly competitive event.
With this victory, the judoka from Judo Clube de Ponta Delgada concludes a particularly relevant cycle in his career, establishing himself as a leading figure in veteran judo internationally. Pedro Nascimento Cabral also emphasized the inspiring dimension of these results, considering them "an example for new generations of athletes" and proof that "sporting excellence is built through discipline, perseverance, and a lasting commitment to the sport".
The municipal recognition also extends to the Judo Clube de Ponta Delgada, a pioneering institution in the sport on São Miguel, with over five decades of work in athlete development and in promoting judo in the Azores and Portugal. The mayor noted that Nuno Carvalho's career highlights the importance of clubs that promote sports and instill values.
It is worth remembering that in 2024, the Municipal Council had already honored the Judo Clube de Ponta Delgada with the Municipal Merit Medal, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary and the celebrations of the 478 years since Ponta Delgada was elevated to city status.
The vote of congratulation was approved at the ordinary meeting of the Municipal Council held on October 28, at the headquarters of Banda Harmonia Mosteirense, in the parish of Mosteiros.
