Paraguay will be celebrating a great day at the Olympic judo event in Paris. Gabriela Narvaez is the country’s sole representative for judo having qualified through the continental quota system. Several continental open medals and a 7th place at the 2024 Pan American Championships were enough to secure her spot and she arrived in Paris ready to make the most of it. “I am happy with my performance today. This is my first Olympic Games and I am trying to enjoy this moment.”
Gabriela Narvaez (PAR) enjoying her Olympic Games.

In her first contest Narvaez threw Aymard (GAB) and concluded via penalties but it was her second contest that threw up the big surprise. In a very close contest neither judoka could break through but in the golden score period Narvaez threw European, Masters and 8-time grand slam medallist Catarina Costa (POR) for ippon. It delivered a moment of shock to both athletes.

Winning against Costa in thr round of 16.

“To lose against Bavuudorj (MGL) in the quarter-final after such a great win was tough, I felt so tired, I gave everything, but her level is very high and I know what I am up against. My country is relatively new to judo, a small judo nation but it’s an honour to represent team Paraguay. I am 29 already but I will stay and go again for 2028, now I have come this far.

I wanted to fight for a medal at this Games, it’s everyone dream.” Narvaez lost out in the repechage to Abuzhakynova (KAZ) and placed 7th, still a fantastic result both for her personally and for Paraguay.

“The best thing about being here in Paris is to be next to these people. When I look at the spectators and their full commitment to all of us I feel goosebumps. They have supported everyone from all different countries and it’s a great feeling.”

Stories of triumph for the smaller nations will pepper the Games, as they always do, and Narvaez’s moment is exactly that, a story of triumph.

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