Before the WJT moves on to Lausanne for the inaugural Ecole Mont-Olivet Lausanne Grand Slam, Switzerland, we must reflect on some of the great moments of this last week in Ecuador.
The individual competition brought new stars into focus such as Genki Fujinaka (JPN), Fatima Supygaliyeva (KAZ) and Jolina Reinhold (GER) who won their categories with mature, intelligent, committed judo. Supygaliyeva was part of a team which excelled, placing second on the overfall medal table.
Above Kazakhstan though was a Russian team which absolutely flew on the final day. Their heavyweights displayed technique and heart in spades and so they jumped to the top of the tally in impressive fashion.
Then, let’s think about the team competition in which these cadets managed pressure and hope and disappointment respectfully throughout the event. They all gave of their best with Kazakhstan coming out on top, becoming the new cadet world mixed team champions. What a performance!
In closing, it is necessary to thank Ecuadorian Judo Federation President Mr Israel Verdugo and his team for hosting the judo family in Guayaquil. Every effort has been made to provide the youngest age category of the world’s elite judoka a great experience at what was, for many, a debut at this level. The hospitality was exemplary and the warm welcome from volunteers and officials has been wonderful.
Thank you Ecuador!