The Gathering 2026 with Tato Grigalashvili & Lasha Shavdatuashvili

The Gathering Returns to Glasgow in 2026 with Tato Grigalashvili and Lasha Shavdatuashvili  

JudoScotland is delighted to announce that The Gathering will return to the Emirates Arena, Glasgow, on 31 October and 1 November 2026, bringing together the Scottish judo community for a truly exceptional weekend of judo.  

The Gathering is more than a CPD weekend; it’s a celebration of judo. It’s a chance for our community to connect, learn from one another, and be part of something bigger. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome two Georgian greats, judoka who have helped shape the modern era of international judo. 

With the British Veterans Championship taking place in Paisley just down the road that same weekend, we’re excited to once again make the greater Glasgow area a destination for Judo. 

Tato Grigalashvili — Triple World Champion, Olympic Medallist 

Tato Grigalashvili has become one of the defining competitors of the –81kg category. Known for his dynamic gripping, powerful throwing style, and exceptional technical clarity, he has dominated the world stage with: 

• Three consecutive World Championship titles  

• Multiple European gold medals 

• Olympic silver at Paris 2024 

• A reputation as one of the most complete judoka in the sport today 

Tato made a huge impact at The Gathering 2025, with attendees praising his detaildriven delivery and the time he dedicated to every individual on the mat. Feedback included: 

“His attention to detail, his enthusiasm and the amount of time he gave to everybody!” 

“Main takeaway was the Georgian grip, taught me some things I had been wondering about and unable to find online, was very thorough in his explanations and genuinely cared that we learnt from him.” 

“The detail in his demonstrations was superb. He gave a brilliant insight into the Georgian style of Judo through the techniques he demonstrated.” 

We are thrilled to welcome him back. 

Lasha Shavdatuashvili — Triple Olympic Medallist, World Champion 

A true legend of the sport, Lasha Shavdatuashvili is one of Georgia’s most decorated judoka. With medals at three Olympic Games (gold in 2012, bronze in 2016, silver in 2020) and a World Championship title in 2021, Lasha’s career reflects extraordinary longevity, adaptability, and tactical intelligence. 

Competing across both –66kg and –73kg categories, he remains one of the most respected and influential athletes on the world stage. His appearance at The Gathering 2026 offers Scottish judoka a rare opportunity to learn from a true master. 

Pricing

JudoScotland Members:

• JudoScotland members non-residential (Saturday & Sunday) £100.00 

• JudoScotland members day pass (Saturday OR Sunday) £75.00 

For all event information and to secure your space, click here: 

Non-JudoScotland Members:

• Non-JudoScotland members non-residential (Saturday & Sunday) £120.00 

• Non-JudoScotland members day pass (Saturday OR Sunday) £95.00 

For non-JudoScotland members, please email events@judoscotland.com or alternatively call Jo Imrie on 0131 333 2981 or 07543287641. 

British Veteran Championships

With the British Veterans Championship taking place in Paisley on the Saturday, we’re excited to once again make the greater Glasgow area a destination for Judo with opportunities for a wider audience across the UK to attend both events over the weekend!

If you are competing at the British Veterans Championships on Saturday 31st October, you can purchase a day pass for the The Gathering Sunday Session (1st November) for just £50.  Once you have your receipt from your Veterans entry please send a copy to our office at events@judoscotland.com and give our office a call to book your space.

Please note that you will need the proof of entry to the British Veterans Championships to get the discounted price.