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Ulan Bator Judo Grand Slam: Golden final day

Mat clear for the heavyweights on the third and final day of competition at the Ulan Bator Judo Grand Slam!

Umeki Mami, the 2015 World Champion, cleared Germany’s Alina Böhm in the women’s up to 78 kilograms on her way to gold before meeting Inbar Lanir from Israel in the final. An uchi-mata became the secret of the Japanese woman’s success. Umeki Mami received gold from Mongolian Member of Parliament Damdin Tsogtbaatar.

“My opponent in the final is in great shape at the moment. I decided to focus on getting a good grip in order to win,” explained Umeki Mami.

Hershko cheers at heavyweight

In the over 78 kilogram weight category, Mongolian judo enthusiasts were hoping for compatriot Adiyasuren Amarsaikhan. And indeed she advanced to the final. But there awaited one of the best judoka in the world, namely Raz Hershko from Israel, currently second in the world heavyweight rankings.

Hershko took her opponent down and then put her out of action with a hold. That gave gold to the Israeli. Both judoka showed real sportsmanship after the tough fight.

Mongolian parliamentarian Badmaanyambuu Bat-Erdene took over the presentation of the medals.

“Any competition with a lot of audience making noise makes for a lot of adrenaline and fun. You always want to keep fighting. It’s great,” said Hershko.

Bronze in the women’s over 78 kilograms went to Kim Hayun of Korea and Kamila Berlikash of Kazakhstan. The Korean won the Grand Prix in Portugal at the end of January, then in February at the Grand Slam in Paris, as now, it was third place.

The Grand Slam in Ulan Bator made it clear that judo is clearly on the rise in Mongolia. See you next year!

By Jennifer