Born: 1961 (Koersel, Belgium)
Biography:
Ingrid Berghmans, born on August 24, 1961, is a Belgian judoka who is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished female judokas in history. Her dominance in the sport during the 1980s earned her six world titles, seven European titles, and the title of Sportswoman of the Year on eight occasions. Berghmans is revered as the greatest Belgian sportswoman of all time and was even dubbed Sportswoman of the Century.
Berghmans was born in Koersel, a small village in Belgium, but grew up in the neighboring town of Leopoldsburg. It was in Leopoldsburg where her passion for judo was sparked. Alongside Robert Van de Walle, she became a pioneering figure in competitive judo in Belgium. Her dedication and talent led her to achieve extraordinary successes at the international level.
At the age of 19, Berghmans made her mark at the inaugural World Judo Championships for women held at Madison Square Garden in New York. She won a bronze medal in her weight category (-72 kg) and a gold medal in the open weight category, solidifying her status as a rising star in the judo world. Her remarkable performance earned her recognition and admiration from the global judo community.
In 1982, Berghmans clinched her first world title in the open weight category, which was subsequently acknowledged with the prestigious National Trophy for Sports Merit. The following year, she was honored as Sportswoman of the Year for the first time, propelling her into the limelight of Belgian sports.
The pinnacle of Berghmans’ career came at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, where women’s judo was included as a demonstration sport. She seized the opportunity and captured the gold medal, cementing her legacy as an Olympic champion. Berghmans’ remarkable journey continued as she claimed her last gold medal in the under-72 kg category at the 1989 European Championships in Helsinki.
Berghmans’ judo prowess is further underscored by her black belt 5th dan, awarded by the Flemish Judo Federation (VJF). Even after retiring from competition, she remained deeply involved in the sport, dedicating herself to coaching and promoting physical fitness among non-athletic individuals. In recognition of her contributions, she was appointed as the chair of the athletes’ committee of the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee (BOIC).
Beyond her achievements in judo, Berghmans had a noteworthy personal life. During the 1980s, she was romantically involved with former Olympic champion Robert Van de Walle, another eminent figure in Belgian judo. However, they eventually parted ways. In 1990, Berghmans married judoka Marc Vallot. Tragically, Vallot passed away from a heart attack at the age of 38. At the time of his death, they were in the process of divorcing, having been estranged for several years. Together, they had two children.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Berghmans graced the small screen, hosting the sports quiz Ingrid, Ingrid in 1990. In 2005, she participated in the Flemish version of De Grootste Belg (The Greatest Belgian) and finished in the 75th place. Berghmans even made a cameo appearance in the popular television series Family.
Ingrid Berghmans’ incomparable achievements, both as an athlete and a role model, have left an indelible mark on the world of judo and women’s sports. Her unwavering determination, exceptional skills, and remarkable success have solidified her position as an icon in Belgian sports history.
Awards:
– Six-time World Judo Champion
– Seven-time European Judo Champion
– Eight-time Sportswoman of the Year in Belgium.