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Judo Grand Prix in Portugal: Golden start to the year

The judo year 2023 begins with the Grand Prix of Portugal, held in Almada near Lisbon.

Two fighters from Kazakhstan faced each other in the final of the women’s up to 48 kilograms: Abiba Abushakynova defeated Galya Tynbayeva. After the gripping clash, both showed exemplary sportsmanship.

The medal presentation was the task of Vlad Marinescu, Director General of the International Judo Federation.

18-year-old Yamato Fukuda bagged his first Grand Prix victory. He defeated Francisco Garrigos from Spain in the competition class up to 60 kilograms.

The reward came from Juan Carlos Barcos, responsible for international relations at the World Judo Federation.

“This result not only gives me more confidence, but means that I will be sent to various competitions around the world in the future and will represent Japan at each of them. It makes me even more determined to work harder and more diligently so that I can cope,” said Fukuda.

Giles takes second World Tour win

Chelsie Giles, who has already won precious metal at the Olympics and World Championships, came to Portugal as the leader of the world rankings. She did full justice to this position. She prevailed in the weight category up to 52 kilograms: After Tel Aviv 2021, her second victory in a World Tour competition. Lisa Allen, event director of the World Judo Federation, honoured the winner.

Giles said, “Winning a medal is good anywhere. I haven’t won many gold medals in adult, so it’s great to get this one, especially in the first competition of the year. “

Mukhriddin Tilovov from Uzbekistan managed to win the men’s up to 66 kilograms, his coach, Ilias Iliadis was also delighted. Armen Bagdasarov, referee director of the world federation, handed over the reward.

Huh Mimi defeats the world champion

Huh Mimi from South Korea won the women’s up to 57 kilograms against world champion Rafaela Silva from Brazil and made her coach happy as well. Neil Adams, referee supervisor at the World Federation, handed out the medal.

Portugal, the host country, was unable to get a member of its squad onto the podium on the first day of the competition. The second attempt will take place this Saturday.

By Frank