Fifteen countries had athletes in the final block, with the continents of Europe, Panamerica, Asia and Africa represented. Athletes from age 17 to 34 competed for medals and all fought with full commitment, many arriving at a medal contest for the first time on the World Judo Tour. This says a lot about the quality of the new generation as this event is filled with high-level competitors, those with great experience, many medals and supreme knowledge of how to win.
In Linz, the event is also marked, alongside the fantatsic judo, by the generosity of the army of volunteers present at the Tips Arena. They are happy to be here, they love being part of such a great tournament and they are totally focused on ensuring all parties are assisted well with every query or logistical challenge. It cannot be stressed enough how much this kind of diligence contributes to the atmosphere of an event. These volunteers are truly magic!
So, we close day one breathing a satisfied sigh, Austria has delivered! Austrian Judo Federation Presdient Dr Martin Poiger can be proud of his team. They will be ready for day 2, that’s guaranteed, and so we must all prepare for a second incredible day, beginning at 9:30am local time. Tune in to JudoTV.com to follow all the action, all results and even particpate in the prediction league.