+78 kg: Hershko Holds Firm to Claim Gold for Israel / IJF.org

In the women’s heavyweight category, all eyes were on Raz Hershko (ISR), the world medallist and Olympic finalist, who once again carried the weight of expectation. Despite strong opposition, she managed to reach the final after a demanding semi-final against France’s Grace-Esther Mienandi Lahou. On the other side of the draw, Emma-Melis Aktas (EST) confirmed her excellent form, defeating Asya Tavano (ITA) to reach her first major final on the World Judo Tour.

Final, Raz Hershko (ISR) vs Emma-Melis Aktas (EST).

Final

Raz Hershko (ISR) vs Emma-Melis Aktas (EST)

A left-sided o-soto-gari from Hershko gave her an immediate advantage, earning a yuko that set the tone for the contest. Aktas, however, showed great determination, continuing to pressure her opponent and forcing Hershko to accept two penalties. The Estonian came close to turning the match around but time ran out before she could complete the comeback. It was gold for Raz Hershko who demonstrated her experience at the highest level once again.

Gold medallist, Raz Hershko (ISR).

Bronze Medal Contests

Yuli Alma Mishiner (ISR) vs Asya Tavano (ITA)

With Asya Tavano unable to compete, the bronze medal was awarded to Yuli Alma Mishiner (ISR).

Bronze medallist, Yuli Alma Minisher (ISR).

Dayanara Curbelo Travieso (CUB) vs Grace-Esther Mienandi Lahou (FRA)

This contest required a golden score period to determine the winner. After 1 minute and 15 seconds, Grace-Esther Mienandi Lahou managed to hold Curbelo Travieso for five seconds, just enough to secure victory and claim her second grand prix medal.

Bronze medal contest, Dayanara Curbelo Travieso (CUB) vs Grace-Esther Mienandi Lahou (FRA).

Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by H.E. Mr Eran Yuvan, Ambassador of Israel in Peru, and Mrs Antuane Borjas, Treasurer & President of the Kata Mr Manuel Commission of the Peruvian Judo Federation

Final (+78 kg)

HERSHKO Raz (ISR) vs AKTAS Emma-Melis (EST)

Bronze Medal Fights (+78 kg)

MISHINER Yuli Alma (ISR) vs TAVANO Asya (ITA)

CURBELO TRAVIESO Dayanara (CUB) vs MIENANDI LAHOU Grace-Esther (FRA)

Final Results (+78 kg)

1. HERSHKO Raz (ISR)

2. AKTAS Emma-Melis (EST)

3. MISHINER Yuli Alma (ISR)

3. MIENANDI LAHOU Grace-Esther (FRA)

5. TAVANO Asya (ITA)

5. CURBELO TRAVIESO Dayanara (CUB)

7. QUIMBIRA Fernanda (ANG)

7. GARCIA SAVIGNE Gusmary (USA)