Welcome back to Upper Austria. The Tips Arena Linz was electric as fans from across the nation gathered to watch both local and international stars take to the tatami on day 2 of the judo grand prix.
The stage was set for another incredible day of judo.
At -63 kg, both Rafaela SILVA of Brazil and Laura FAZLIU of Kosovo looked unstoppable during the preliminaries. In the final, however, there could be only one winner. In a clash of two champions, a yuko score from SILVA saw her take gold.
The medals were presented by International Judo Federation Sport Director Ms Hedvig KARAKAS.
At -73 kg, Ethan NAIRNE of Great Britain met Bilal CILOGLU of Türkiye in the final. NAIRNE worked hard throughout the day to reach his first-ever grand prix final with his sights set on gold.
An osoto-gari and a yuko score gave NAIRNE his first-ever grand prix gold.
His medal was awarded by International Judo Federation Medical Commission Chair Dr Antonio CASTRO.
The -70 kg final saw local hero Michaela POLLERES of Austria against April Lynn FOHOUO of Switzerland. With the fight going into golden score, the fans were on the edge of their seats. And an incredible change of direction from POLLERES, caught her opponent and sent the crowd wild!
She received her medal from Austrian Judo Federation President Dr Martin POIGER.
In the -81Kg final, Adilet ALMAT of Kazakhstan met Vusal GALANDARZADE of Azerbaijan. ALMAT was on top form throughout the day with some incredible scores, and just one more fight stood between him and gold. A wonderfully timed sumi-gaeshi from ALMAT into a hold down, secured him a submission and the gold medal.
The medals were awarded by International Judo Federation Referee Supervisor Mr Mathieu BATAILLE.
It’s been an incredible day with some amazing results. We’ll see you tomorrow, for Day 3!
