In Kazakhstan though there is a government committed to the development of sport nationwide, illustrated by the presence of Republic of Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on day one of the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam.
For the Kazakh athletes and coaches, it is a great honour to not only thrill their public but to do so under the gaze of their head of state. Talgat Orynbassar and Sherzod Davlatov both reached the -60 kg podium under these conditions, further enhancing the image of judo across Kazakhstan.
As Astana prepares for the second day of competition, France holds the top of the medal table in their hands. Blandine Pont took gold at -52 kg and Faiza Mokdar doubled their haul by taking gold at -57 kg. Mongolia follows France having expected to dominate on day one with a number of seeded lightweight judoka. However, they were unable to follow the hierarchy laid out by the ranking and must regroup for the Saturday categories.
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