Austrian emotion and achievements for history on the second day of the Judo Grand Prix in Upper Austria

Second day of the Judo Grand Prix at the TipsArena in Linz, Upper Austria.

By participating in this event, Sabrina Filzmoser He closed his career with a flourish, before his audience. A dedicated crowd fired Filzmoser with the delivery of his sixth dan and an ovation to remember.

Later, the Austrian judo legend joined his team to repay the many young fans who had come to the TipsArena to meet their heroes.

Regardless of what happened next on the tatami, the fans there seemed well aware that they were living a historic day for judo: that of their country and the world.

Already in competition, the Japanese Momo Tatsukawa could not contain the emotion when winning the grand final of less than 63 against his compatriot Seiko Watanabe. Tatsukawa shared his triumph and his happiness with an audience that was always dedicated.

Already on the podium, the Sports Councilor of Upper Austria, Markus Achleitnergave his gold to the Japanese.

In less than 73, the Israeli Tohar Butbul he prevailed for his part in an exhausting final. This is his first gold in four years.

The sports director of the International Judo Federation, Vladimir BartaHe handed out the medals.

Historic day for Puerto Rico

And historic victory in less than 70 for the Puerto Rican Maria Perez, who starred in the day of his life. Her rival in the final was the British Kelly Petersen Pollard, but for Pérez the result was already written: it was the first gold for his country in the World Judo Tour. Without a doubt, an unforgettable day for Puerto Rico.

IJF Vice President, Laszlo Toththe golden medal hung on Pérez.

“I think judo is a very, very special sport, and I like it when people shout for you, when they cheer for different countries,” the champion later confessed. “It makes me feel at home, it makes me feel strong, it makes me feel happy, so thank you Austria for this very special moment.”

In less than 81, the Austrian Shamil Borchashvili defended local pride. And he did it successfully, defeating the Ukrainian in the final. Mykhailo Svidrak and bringing absolute delirium to the TipsArena exploded. Undoubtedly the best way to end the second of the three days of this Judo Grand Prix.

The Governor of Upper Austria, Thomas Stelzerdid the honors on the podium.

“Competing here, in a Grand Prix at home, and getting gold means a lot,” Borchashvili acknowledged. “My family is here, my friends are here, the club, all the judokas, the future champions are also here. Winning in front of all of them is incredible.”

Not only Borchashvili more than fulfilled before his audience. In general terms, the Austrian team offered a great performance based on indisputable ippons and unforgettable memories that have not yet ended. Judo returns to Linz this Saturday.