Ulaanbaatar is the beating heart of Mongolia, a country known for its vast landscapes and love of judo. In the packed Steppe Arena, fans watched the big final day of the Judo Grand Slam.
Won in the weight class up to 90 kilos Mikhail Igolnikov as a country-neutral athlete against Erlan Sherov from Kyrgyzstan. Mohammed Meridja, Director of Education at the International Judo Federation (IJF), presented the medals.
The spectators were happy to see judo stars like the reigning world champion in the weight class up to 78 kilos. For the Israel Inbar Lanir it was the first competition since winning her world title last month.
She overpowered her Japanese opponent with two powerful throws Mami Umeki and secured Grand Slam gold. She received her medal from Armen Bagdasarov, Director of Chief Judges at the IJF
“They are incredible, they love judo, no matter what country they come from. Of course they’re cheering for Mongolia, but they just like good judo. It’s very nice to fight here,” said Inbar Lanir.
Israeli Inbar Lanir vs Japanese Mami Umeki – IJF
Mongolian Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag takes home gold
Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag was in top form on the final day of the Grand Slam. In the semifinals, the Mongolian eliminated and defeated the reigning world champion Arman Adamian with a huge counter.
In the final he then faced the judo legend Varlam Liparteliani from Georgia and wowed the crowd with another brilliant counterattack. The winner received his medal from Steppe Arena CEO Tsagaan Puntsag.
“I’m speechless, this incredible support from the audience. I’m so happy to have my first Grand Slam gold ever, and that here in Mongolia, unbelievable,” said Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag.
In the 78+ class, Tomita Wakaba defeated Israel’s Raz Hershko to take Japan’s 7th gold in the tournament. The medals were presented by Moshe Ponti, President of the Israel Judo Federation.
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World Champion Inal Tasoev remains the star of his class
From 100 kilos world champion Inal Tasoev showed who is the star of his class, he threw and immediately secured with an arm lock. He was honored by Ki-Young Jeon, Director of Chief Judges at the IJF.
Three days of high judo art and a host team that showed all their skills. Heavyweight Tsetsentsenkel Odkhuu gave the Mongolian team yet another medal at the end of the 2023 Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam.
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2023-06-25 20:44:55
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