Valencian Judo Shines on International Stage
The Judo Federation of the Valencian Community made a strong showing in Febuary, securing four medals across two prestigious competitions: the Tel Aviv Grand Slam and the Fuengirola Cadet European Cup.These events showcased both the current prowess and the promising future of Valencian judo.
Figueroa Claims Bronze in Tel Aviv
Julia Figueroa, a Cordoba native who has called Valencia home for years, kicked off the medal haul at the Tel Aviv Grand Slam in the -48kg category. Returning to international competition after the Tokyo Olympics, figueroa delivered a near-flawless performance, demonstrating both technical mastery and tactical brilliance.
Her journey included victories over Natalie Kolein (GER) and Andrea Stojadinov (SRB). While a semi-final loss to Milica Nikolic (SRB) prevented her from reaching the gold medal match, Figueroa rebounded to secure bronze against Israeli judoka Shira Rishony. Notably, Rishony was the same athlete who had eliminated Figueroa from Olympic medal contention in Tokyo.
Reflecting on her performance, Figueroa expressed satisfaction with her progress since returning to the tatami. “My daily feelings have been very positive as I got back to competing,” she stated.”I knew I was capable of performing at this level and reaching the podium in Tel Aviv.Interestingly, after the Rio Games, I finished fifth in the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam. So, we’re already ahead of the curve compared to the previous Olympic cycle,” she added, highlighting her confidence and determination.
Young talent Shines in Fuengirola
Simultaneously occurring, the Cadet European Cup in Fuengirola saw the next generation of Valencian judo stars take center stage. The team’s performance at this event underscores the depth of talent within the region’s judo program and bodes well for the future of the sport in Valencia.
(Note: This section requires information about the specific results of the Valencian judo team at the Fuengirola Cadet european Cup to be completed.)
The success of Valencian judoka in both Tel aviv and Fuengirola highlights the strength and vibrancy of the sport in the region.With a mix of experienced veterans like Figueroa and promising young athletes, the future of Valencian judo appears radiant.## Spanish Judo Stars Shine at European Cadet Cup in Fuengirola
The European Cadet Cup in Fuengirola witnessed a triumphant performance by Spanish judoka, with Aitana diaz and davit Kevlishvili securing gold medals and Aitana sala claiming a well-deserved silver.
Aitana Diaz,Spain’s reigning Cadet Champion and bronze medalist in the -48kg category at the Absolute Championships,dominated her weight class. She showcased her exceptional skills in four thrilling bouts against Celia Maillard (France), Leyla damirova (azerbaijan), Tara Babulfath (Sweden), and Alessandra Rocco (Italy), ultimately claiming the European Cup title.
Fellow Spanish judoka aitana Sala, also a Cadet Champion in the +70kg category, displayed remarkable tenacity in her four matches. She emerged victorious against Laura Gonzalez (Spain), Anya Hassan (Great Britain), and June moreno (Spain), narrowly missing out on gold after a hard-fought battle against the formidable French champion, grace-Esther Mienandi.
Rising Judo Star Davit Kevlishvili Claims European gold
Davit Kevlishvili, a 15-year-old judoka of Georgian descent, has made a meaningful stride towards his dream of representing Spain on the international stage. The reigning Spanish Cadet champion in the +90kg category, Kevlishvili dominated the European Cup in Fuengirola, securing the gold medal after defeating three formidable opponents: Daniel Ede (GBR), Zaur Sarioghlu (AZE), and Ramazan Ahmadov (AZE). This victory marks Kevlishvili’s first international medal while representing Spain.
This impressive performance has earned Kevlishvili a spot on the Spanish team for the upcoming European Summit in Coimbra,were he will once again proudly wear the colors of Spain and the Valencian Judo Federation.
Kevlishvili’s journey to this point is a testament to his dedication and talent. Having arrived in Spain at the age of 10, he has been honing his skills and striving for excellence ever since. His ultimate goal is to become a permanent fixture on the Spanish national team.
Currently,Kevlishvili is eligible to compete for Spain in international tournaments until he reaches the age of 18. At that point, obtaining Spanish nationality will be crucial for him to continue his journey with the Spanish team. His recent success in Fuengirola is a major step forward in achieving this goal.
Kevlishvili’s story is reminiscent of other young athletes who have made Spain their home and gone on to achieve great things in their chosen sports. His determination and talent make him a promising prospect for the future of Spanish judo.
Valencian Judo Stars Set to Shine at Warsaw European Open
The Judo Federation of the Valencian Community is sending a strong contingent of athletes to compete in the prestigious Warsaw European Open Senior this weekend. Ten talented judokas will represent the region, showcasing their skills on the international stage.
The team boasts a diverse roster of experienced competitors, including Maria Ruiz, Vlada Kopnyayeva, Gaizka porras, Gorka Sánchez, Jaume Bernabéu, Daniel Pérez, Aitor Goikoetxea, Alberto Varela, Alfonso Urquiza, and Irinel Chelaru. Each athlete brings their unique strengths and dedication to the team, aiming to secure podium finishes and contribute to the Valencian Community’s judo legacy.
This year’s Warsaw European Open promises to be a fiercely competitive event, attracting top judokas from across Europe. The tournament serves as a crucial stepping stone for athletes aspiring to qualify for major international competitions, including the World Championships and the olympic games.
Valencian Judo: A Force to be Reckoned With
The Judo Federation of the Valencian Community has firmly placed itself on the map of international judo with a dazzling performance across two prestigious competitions in February.From the veteran expertise of Julia Figueroa to the rising stars shining at the Cadet European Cup, Valencian judo demonstrates a depth of talent and a luminous future for the sport in the region.
Figueroa Back on Top:
Julia Figueroa, a seasoned competitor and Olympic veteran, showcased her mastery at the Tel Aviv Grand Slam, capturing the bronze medal in the -48kg category. this comeback performance, following her participation in the Tokyo Olympics, proved Figueroa remains a force to be reckoned with on the world stage. Her strategic brilliance and technical prowess were evident throughout the tournament, culminating in a decisive victory against Shira Rishony, the very judoka who had dashed Figueroa’s Olympic medal hopes in Tokyo.
Figueroa’s determination and positive mindset are truly inspiring.Recognizing her own growth sence the Rio Olympics, she reflects on this latest achievement as a positive indicator for the future. Her dedication and unwavering spirit serve as an example to younger judoka in the Valencian community.
Young Guns Rise in Fuengirola:
While Figueroa was making waves in tel Aviv, the Cadet European Cup in fuengirola witnessed the next generation of Valencian judo making its mark. Aitana Diaz emerged as a shining star, claiming the gold medal in her weight class.Diaz’s dominant performance, where she decisively defeated a series of talented opponents, showcases not onyl her technical skills but also her mental fortitude.
Adding to Valencian judo’s success in fuengirola, Aitana Sala secured a well-deserved silver medal in the +70kg category. Her notable run proves the amazing depth of talent within the Valencian cadet program, signaling a promising future for the region in international judo.
A Bright Future ahead:
The dual successes in Tel Aviv and Fuengirola highlight the remarkable strength and depth of Valencian judo. With veterans like Figueroa leading by example and a promising crop of young athletes quickly rising through the ranks, the future of Judo in Valencia shines brightly.
This successful February for the Judo Federation of the Valencian Community is not just about medals, but about the dedication, spirit, and unwavering pursuit of excellence that resonates throughout the sport in the region. Their performances serve as an inspiration to budding judoka and a testament to the strength of the Valencian judo program.
