Johana Orozco Leads National Judo Top Ranking in Cúcuta: Path to Bolivarian Games

The Road to the Juegos Bolivarianos in Cúcuta

The national tournament served as a crucial qualifying and preparatory checkpoint for athletes aiming to represent Colombia internationally. Among the standout competitors in Cúcuta was Johan Sebastián Rojas Cano of the Liga Risaraldense de Judo, who captured a silver medal in the -60 kilogram division, as reported by El Diario. Rojas noted that while his primary ambition was the gold medal, securing second place maintained his strong position within the national standings.

“Fue un resultado que no esperábamos, trabajamos por mantenernos y superar los resultados de los años anteriores.”

Risaraldense Athletes Claim Podiums on the Tatami

In the -73 kilogram category, fellow Risaralda competitor Jorge Hernán González earned a bronze medal, solidifying his standing among the country’s elite fighters. González reflected on his longevity in the sport following the tournament, sharing via social media remarks reported by El Diario that he has spent 18 years enjoying combat on the tatami as his primary passion and adrenaline.

Yesid Mazo, a coach for the Liga Risaraldense de Judo, detailed the current standings of the department’s athletes following the Cúcuta event. Mazo confirmed that Rojas holds the second position in the national ranking, while González sits in fourth place in the 73 kg division.

Next Steps for Colombian Judo

Athletes who competed in Cúcuta face a brief turnaround before their next major test. Training schedules are already dialed toward the upcoming Campeonato Nacional Prejuegos, scheduled to take place in Bogotá in approximately two months, where competitors will look to validate and improve their rankings.