In Baku, Kaju was calmness personified but with a razor-like judo that cut through all obstacles. The majority of predications listed her name for gold and she delivered. Once the result was secured, Kaju was happy to speak about her preparation and approach to the day.
“This world championship was a very important step on the road towards the Los Angeles Olympic Games, so I came here extremely focused. I wasn’t necessarily expecting to go so far so I took each contest one at a time and concentrated only on the opponent in front of me.
There was definitely a different kind of nervousness this time. I hadn’t competed for quite a long period, so everything felt different, but at the same time I knew there was still an opportunity and I wanted to take it.
Facing Clarisse Agbegnenou was on my plan but it didn’t happen this time. She is such an experienced and accomplished opponent and I know that we may meet again in the future, perhaps even in another major final. If that happens, I want to be ready and prepare myself to fight her.”
It is a mark of great champions that they want to win by beating the best judoka of their era. Clarisse continues to be a benchmark for the category. Regardless of opponent though, Kaju prepares her own judo in her own way.
“If I could give one piece of advice to the younger generation, it would be to work on developing one strong technique first. Make that technique your own and, from there, gradually build your complete style of judo around it. In terms of my judo, I always try not to become defensive. I want to remain hungry, keep moving forward and constantly look for opportunities to attack. That is the kind of judo I want to produce.”
She did exactly that! Great judo and perfect composure brought her the gold and the crowd inside the National Gymnastics Arena appreciated it throughout the day.
“The atmosphere here was very special. There was so much noise, with the drums, the flags waving and the support from the crowd. It created a completely different feeling around the competition and I really enjoyed experiencing that. I am very grateful to everyone who supported me, including all those who were not able to come here in person. I felt that support and I really appreciate every one of them.”
Haruka Kaju is building a special reputation and an outstanding record. This first two years of a career that already points at greatness has been a privilege to witness and it looks like it is only going to grow from here.