Thrilling Day at the 2024 Junior World Judo Championships
The third day of the 2024 Junior World Judo Championships unfolded today in the vibrant city of Dushanbe, Tajikistan. A large crowd gathered at the renowned Kasri Tennis Arena to witness the most talented young judokas compete for the coveted gold medals.
Among the attendees was Azerbaijan’s -100kg Paris Olympic Champion, Zelym Kotsoiev, who captivated the audience by supporting his younger brother during the tournament. However, it was the Georgian judoka Luka Javakhishvili who stole the spotlight in the -81kg category, claiming victory with a spectacular winding makikomi technique that proved decisive in the final match. This remarkable performance earned Javakhishvili the junior world title amidst roaring cheers from the crowd.
Mr. Timur Tursumbayev, representative of the Harvest Group, was on hand to present the medals. Javakhishvili expressed his gratitude, stating, “Huge respect to this country; it’s an amazing place. The competitors in the -81kg category were phenomenal, and the audience’s support was truly inspiring. Hearing them cheer for their athletes fueled my determination to win.”
The excitement continued in the -70kg category, where Elena Dengg showcased her skills. She waited until deep into the golden score to execute a powerful O-Uchi-Gari, successfully throwing her opponent, April Lynn Fohouo, to secure the gold medal for Austria. Overwhelmed with emotion, Dengg expressed her joy, saying, “I still can’t believe it; I’m so speechless. Whether it was the long fight in golden score or the surge of emotions, this was my dream. Hearing my national anthem on the podium will make me cry, I know it.”
In another highlight of the day, the defending champion at -90kg, Komei Kawabata, demonstrated his exceptional skills once more. He started by executing a stunning standing Seoi-Nage to throw Egor Malkin, followed by showcasing his impressive groundwork to secure a pin for the victory. The esteemed Olympic Silver Medallist Dr. Askhat Zhitkeyev presented him with his second Junior World Gold medal.
Additionally, a poignant moment occurred when the President of the Tajikistan Judo Federation, Mr. Ismoil Mahmadzoir, honored the retiring Tajik judoka Komronshokh Ustopiriyon. A two-time Asian champion and an eleven-time medalist on the world judo tour, Ustopiriyon bid farewell to his devoted fans, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in the sport.