Georgian judo legend Varlam LIPARTELIANI was celebrated on the final day of the competition.
An incredible final day at the Grand Slam in Tbilisi saw even more amazing judo in the spotlight
The Georgian team was once again in fine form, inspiring subsequent generations who watched in awe.
In the -90 kg category, reigning Olympic champion and hero of the local public, Lasha Bekauri fought his way to the final. There he faced Eljan Hajiyev.
It was Bekauri and the crowd against the Azeris and it was too much. Ippon, and the crowd went wild.
The First Deputy Minister of Culture and Sport of Georgia, Ioseb Baghaturia, was present to present the medal.
“I am so happy, and in my country there is such a good atmosphere and I love my people, I love my country. when I fight here I always do my best and now I win a second time here and I am very happy,” Bekauri said.
Nikoloz Sherazadishvili faced Shady Elnahas in -100 kg. A superb counter-attack from the Spaniard earned him victory.
Leri Khabelov, President of the Georgian National Olympic Committee, presented the medals.
In the -78 kg category, Yuliia Kurchenko faced Guusje Steenhuis. A Ko-soto gake from the edge of the box was the winning score for a delighted Kurchenko. Gold for Ukraine.
She received her medals from IFJ Director of Media and Judo for Peace, Nicolas Messner.
In the +78 kg category, Frenchwoman Coralie Hayme and German Renee Lucht reached the final.
In the final seconds, Lucht delivered the decisive blow, throwing and then holding his opponent for a memorable victory.
The medals were awarded by world champion and double Olympic medalist Neil Adams.
“It’s very great, there are so many people that it’s not often. It’s good, and they applaud every throw, it’s not like that every time, but here it’s very good,” Lucht said.
It was Guram Tushishvili versus Ushangi Kokauri to close out judo, in a replay of the 2018 World Championship final, and Tushishvili came out on top once again. The home crowd was on their feet celebrating the perfect end to an unforgettable event.
Anzor Chubinidze, head of the Special Protection Service of the State of Georgia, presented him with the gold.
Tbilisi also celebrated a pillar of the Georgian national team. Varlam Liparteliani, the 2016 Olympic and six-time World Championship silver medalist, took the stage at a special ceremony to announce his retirement from the sport.
Giorgi Atabegashvili, president of the Georgian Judo Federation, thanked Liparteliani and presented him with memorable gifts.
A great celebration of a brilliant career.
The Georgian team was as dynamic and exciting as ever and showed brilliance to bring these 3 incredible days to a successful conclusion.
See you next week in Antalya.
2024-03-24 19:38:59
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