Morocco’s junior judo team dominated the first day of the African International Open, securing an impressive haul of 29 medals, including 8 gold, 8 silver, and 13 bronze.
held at the Mohammed V complex in Casablanca and running through january 19, the tournament is organized by the Royal Moroccan Judo Federation. Its primary goal is to foster the growth of judo across Africa and enhance international sports collaboration.
In the men’s division, moroccan athletes claimed gold in several weight categories. Ahmed Alaoui Chrifi triumphed in the -60 kg class, Aniss Ijioui in the -66 kg, Nouh lahmouri in the -73 kg, and Amine El Azzouzi in the -100 kg.
On the women’s side, Meriem El Maakoul (-48 kg), Amina Alaoui Charifi (-52 kg), Malak Lakhal (-78 kg), and Taouab Aboulizza (+78 kg) all secured top honors in their respective categories.
The event’s schedule includes cadet competitions on Friday, featuring weight classes such as under 50 kg, 55 kg, 60 kg, 66 kg, 73 kg, 81 kg, 90 kg, and over 90 kg for boys, and under 44 kg, 48 kg, 52 kg, 57 kg, 63 kg, 70 kg, and over 70 kg for girls.
Senior athletes will take the stage on Saturday and Sunday, showcasing their skills in the final rounds of the tournament.
Under the esteemed patronage of King Mohammed VI, the competition has drawn 304 participants (186 male and 118 female) from 34 nations, highlighting its significance as a premier judo event in Africa.
SL/ac/Sf/APA
Exclusive Interview with Judo Legend Amina Alaoui Charifi: Reflecting on Morocco’s Dominance at the African International Open
Moderator: Welcome, everyone, to this special edition of Sports Insights! today, we’re diving into the thrilling world of judo, fresh off the heels of morocco’s incredible performance at the African International Open in Casablanca. Joining us is none other then amina Alaoui Charifi, a retired judo champion and one of Morocco’s most decorated athletes. Amina, thank you for being here today.
Amina Alaoui Charifi: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the sport I love, especially when it’s about such a monumental event for African judo.
Moderator: Let’s jump right in. morocco’s junior judo team absolutely dominated the first day of the tournament, securing 29 medals, including 8 golds. What are your thoughts on this incredible achievement?
Amina Alaoui Charifi: It’s nothing short of phenomenal.To see our young athletes perform at such a high level on an international stage is a testament to the hard work of the Royal Moroccan Judo Federation and the athletes themselves. Winning 29 medals, including 8 golds, is a clear indicator that Morocco is a powerhouse in African judo.
Moderator: Speaking of gold medals, your namesake, Amina Alaoui Charifi, won gold in the -52 kg category. How dose it feel to see the next generation carrying on the legacy of Moroccan judo?
Amina Alaoui Charifi: (Laughs) It’s a bit surreal, honestly! But it’s also incredibly inspiring. I remember the pressure of competing at that level, and to see these young athletes rise to the occasion is a proud moment for all of us. Amina’s victory in the -52 kg category is a reflection of her dedication and the strong foundation of judo in Morocco.
Moderator: The tournament also saw standout performances from athletes like Ahmed Alaoui Chrifi (-60 kg) and Meriem El Maakoul (-48 kg). What do you think sets these athletes apart?
Amina Alaoui Charifi: Discipline,technique,and mental fortitude. Judo is as much a mental game as it is indeed physical. Athletes like Ahmed and Meriem have shown that they can handle the pressure and execute their strategies flawlessly. Their victories are a result of years of training and a deep understanding of the sport.
Moderator: The African International Open is not just about competition; it’s also about fostering growth and collaboration across the continent.How critically important is this event for the future of African judo?
Amina Alaoui Charifi: It’s absolutely crucial.Events like this provide a platform for athletes from different nations to compete, learn, and grow together. The fact that 304 participants from 34 countries are here speaks volumes about the tournament’s meaning. It’s a stepping stone for African judo to gain recognition on the global stage.
Moderator: Let’s talk about the cadet competitions scheduled for Friday. What advice would you give to these young athletes as they prepare to step onto the mat?
Amina Alaoui Charifi: My advice would be to stay focused and enjoy the experience. These competitions are about more than just winning medals; they’re about learning, building confidence, and making connections. Win or lose,every match is an opportunity to grow.
Moderator: The senior athletes will take the stage this weekend. What can we expect from them, and how do you think the juniors’ success will impact their performance?
Amina Alaoui Charifi: The seniors will undoubtedly bring their A-game. The juniors’ success has set the tone for the tournament, and I believe it will motivate the seniors to perform even better. Judo is a sport where every match is unpredictable, so we’re in for some exciting battles.
Moderator: Amina, what message would you like to send to the readers and judo enthusiasts following this event?
amina Alaoui Charifi: I’d like to encourage everyone to support these incredible athletes and the sport of judo. Whether you’re a fan, a coach, or an aspiring judoka, your support makes a difference. Let’s continue to celebrate the growth of judo in Africa and beyond.
Moderator: Thank you, Amina, for sharing your insights and passion for judo.It’s been an absolute pleasure having you here.
Amina Alaoui Charifi: Thank you! It’s been a grate discussion.
Reader Interaction:
What are your thoughts on Morocco’s dominance at the African International Open? Do you think this success will translate to the global stage? Share your opinions in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Keywords: African International Open, Morocco judo, Amina Alaoui Charifi, Royal moroccan Judo Federation, casablanca judo tournament, African judo growth, junior judo champions, senior judo competitions.
