The ECOLE MONT-OLIVET LAUSANNE GRAND SLAM returned to Switzerland at the Vaudoise Arena, making history in the world of judo! Just before the event kicked off, Mr. Marius Vizer, the president of the International Judo Federation, and Sergei Ashchwanden, the president of the Swiss Judo Federation, put pen to paper, signing a contract to host the 2028 World Championships in Switzerland. With great anticipation, President Vizer officially opened the grand slam, and the atmosphere was electric!

Several notable figures addressed the crowd, including Ms. Emilie Moëschler, Director of Sports and Social Cohesion for Lausanne, and Ms. Christelle Luisier Brodard, the President of the Council of State of Vaud. They were joined by Mr. Sergei Aschwanden and Mr. Demien Antoine, the President of the Deaf International Judo Federation. A highlight of the day was when Kazuhiro Mikami Sensei received his 10th dan, the highest rank in judo, making it a day of celebration and recognition!

In a remarkable display of inclusivity, deaf judoka participated in the grand slam competition, stepping onto the tatami alongside their peers. It was a sight to behold! In the -63 kg category, Angelika SZYMANSKA seized an opportunity after a failed attack from Manon DEKETER, executing her signature arm lock to clinch the victory. Medal awarding was handled by Mr. Christoph DUBI, the IOC Olympic Games Executive Director, adding to the prestige of the event.

The finals were nothing short of thrilling! In the -73 kg final, Daniel CARGNIN showcased an incredible comeback with a huge counter, winning gold while Swiss World Champion Nils STUMP cheered him on. His medal was presented by Mr. Ingmar DE VOS, the President of ASOIF. Over in the -70 kg final, it was a fierce battle between Miriam BUTKEREIT and Giovanna SCOCCIMARRO from Germany, with BUTKEREIT ultimately being crowned victor. Mr. Simon BENHAMOU, CEO of CBH Bank, awarded the medals, sealing a memorable moment for all involved.

The excitement continued in the -81 kg category, where Abylaikhan ZHUBANAZAR executed a lightning-fast foot sweep for yuko to earn his victory. The medals were awarded by IOC Member Mr. Mustapha BERRAF, marking another milestone in this thrilling day of competition. The Swiss team put on a strong performance throughout the second day, and it was Aurelien BONFERRONI who brought home a bronze medal for the host nation, adding to the pride of the local crowd.

As the dust settles on this historic day for judo, one can’t help but wonder what the future holds for such an exciting sport in Switzerland. Will the momentum continue to build? Only time will tell…

Kaynak: Orijinal Haber

The IJF World Tour has returned, and oh boy, what an exciting debut it had in Lausanne, Switzerland! Just before the tournament kicked off, Olympic judo legends took a moment to etch their names onto the commemorative wall at the IOC building. International Judo Federation President Mr. Marius Vizer even took the time to meet some bright young hopefuls during a local masterclass.

Now, let’s talk about what went down inside the Vaudoise Arena. For the very first time, adaptive judo athletes shared the same mats as the world’s elite judoka. Can you imagine the energy? It was electric! After showcasing their skills, the spotlight shifted to Marina VOROBEVA, who emerged victorious in the -48kg category, locking her opponent in an arm lock during the final. What a finish! Mr. Sergey SOLOVEYCHIK, President of the Russian Judo Federation, was there to hand out the medals, making the moment even more special.

Yamato FUKUDA from Japan was another star of the day. With eyes on him from President Vizer and IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach, he executed a stunning Ura-nage counter that secured his first-ever Grand Slam gold medal. Talk about a game-changer! He received his medal from IOC Member Mrs. Aïcha GARAD ALI, making it a moment to remember.

In the -52kg final, it was Gefen PRIMO who fought fiercely to claim her fourth Grand Slam gold. She was awarded her medal by the Honorary President, Mr. Thomas BACH, and the applause echoed through the arena. Then, there was a thrilling all-Japan final at -66kg, where Kairi KENTOKU faced off against Shinsei HATTORI. KENTOKU delivered a breathtaking Uchi-mata that clinched his first Grand Slam gold. Mrs. Petra SÖRLING, an IOC Member, was on hand to give him his medal.

The excitement didn’t stop there! In the -57kg final, Eteri LIPARTELIANI, the current world champion from Georgia, went head-to-head with Sarah Leonie CYSIQUE from France. With a signature hip throw, LIPARTELIANI proved she’s back at the top of her game, and she was awarded gold by multiple Olympic medalist Mr. Klaus GLAHN.

And guess what? Tomorrow promises even more excitement with the middle-weights and a lineup of judo stars ready to take the mat. So, keep your eyes peeled for what’s next in this thrilling journey of judo!

Kaynak: Orijinal Haber