Julio Lugo, who was a national champion in the Dominican Republic in 1985 created the Wellington Judo Academy.

Sensei Lugo is also a former national coach and referee from the Dominican Republic.

For more than a decade, Sensei Lugo trained with Shijan (Master of Masters) Mamoru Magtsunaga (9 degree black belt).

Shijan Magtsunaga is the founder of Judo in the Dominican Republic, one of the highest ranks in the world.

Sensei Lugo also trained for many years with Juan Chalas, who is now the technical director of the Dominican Republic Judo Federation.

Sensei Chalas was the national and international champion for the Dominican Republic several times.

He also was the youngest Judo player to compete in the 1972 Olympics In Munich, Germany.

Sensei Lugo and his no nonsense approach, was the captain of the Dominica Republic Army Judo team.

He was an Armed forces Judo Champion for the Dominican Republic in the 65 kg -75kq 1985 through 1988.

For many years Sensei Lugo, has, been working, in the development of Judo players, both In the Dominican Republic and the United States.