The second day of Grand Prix of Almada, the first judo World Tour event of the season, filled the stadium with Portuguese supporters eager to cheer on local stars. And Barbara Timo did not disappoint expectations. After making her way through the preliminary rounds, the judoka captured Portugal’s first gold medal of the tournament to the delight of the fans, who applauded their heroine.
Catarina Rodrigues, director of the Portuguese Grand Prix presented the medals.
In the category -73 kg Obidkhon Nomonov defeated Kazakh Zhansay Smagulov after a challenge conducted constantly on the attack until the final gong.
Great determination and great joy for Nomonov.
To deliver the medals Mohammed Meridja, educational and technical director of the IJF.
“Having my team here is a great support – Nomonov said – when I’m tired Iliadis encourages me. When I hear his voice I find strength and start fighting better, especially when I’m tired”.
In the tweet: “Picture perfect ???? _Nomonov roars with joy! He is the Grand Prix Champion! _????”
For the women -70 kg Australian Aoife Coughlan made sparks shine throughout the day: his extraordinary performance up to the final victory. The athlete won his first gold medal in the grand prix and the second for his country.
Vladimir Barta, sports director of the IJF, awarded the winner.
In the -81 kg category, Korean rising star Lee Joohnwan he made himself noticed once again: 20 years old and he’s already the judoka to keep an eye on. For him yet another World Tour gold brought home against the big names in the category.
The medals were awarded by Florin Daniel Lascau, director of referees of the Federation.
In the tweet: “_Rising star Joonhwan Lee wins another gold medal at WJT! Will he be able to keep up in 2023?_????”
The public had something to cheer with Anri Egutidze: even if he didn’t get on the podium today, he put on a show for his fans. Back in the under 81kg category, you look ready to make your mark.
On matchday three, other Portuguese stars will aim for gold.
