Uzbekistan’s team were also in great form winning three bronzes on top of their gold, not far behind Kazakhstan at all. Russia and Israel each had a gold and a bronze while Azerbaijan and the USA each won a single gold medal.
It was close at the top and so day two offered an opportunity for many countries to overtake but by the end of this second day at the Coliseo Voltaire Paladines Polo, Kazakhstan had extended their lead and now had 9 medals across 7 of the 11 weight categories contested. It would be a challenge to catch them but it was certain that on day three, they would be chased by the rest.
What is most pleasing is that twenty of the 59 countries present have already won at least one medal at this championship. Asian, Pan-American and European flags all appear on this list and it is likely that the number will increase on day 3. This is therefore a truly global event, diversity, universality being at the heart of the International Judo Federation’s missions.
It is now time for all teams to have their final meetings and get a good night’s sleep ready to deliver the power of heavyweight day. Tune in to JudoTV.com to stay on top of all statistics, replays and live action from Guayaquil!