Stephen Bertrand, from the Budokaï Center in Châteauguay, is very proud of his student Angelo Tematieu who qualified for the World Judo Championships. (Photo Le Soleil: Eric Tremblay)
The challenge was great for Angelo Tematieu. The judoka from Châteauguay faced tougher opponents this year. Which didn’t stop him from winning the Canadian championship. The 17-year-old athlete is now tackling the World Championship with the same passion.
“You have to aim for the stars to land on the moon,” the judoka said. “In my head, I have the possibility of winning gold. So, that’s my goal.”
The judoka is excited about his qualification for this competition, which will take place in Peru in August. This will be his first international competition, and he is eager to measure himself against opponents from other countries. “I have the same technique and the same movements,” he said. “My judo is technical. I define it by using the least possible force to win. It happens in the preparation and the mind.”
Higher weight category
At the start of the year, Angelo opted for a higher weight category, under 90 kg. He had recently had a weight gain that made it difficult for him to meet the 81 kg limit.
“I find myself among the lightest,” he said. Despite everything, I had a big year, with four silver medals and two gold.”
He obtained his selection for the Canadian team at the end of a competition which brought together 12 judokas in his group. “I won three fights and the second was the hardest for me,” Angelo explained. I’ve had a love of sport since I started winning.”
Because the athlete has not always been on the highest step of the podium. In his early days, despite his physical strength, he was never able to win gold. The turbulent child that he was loved fighting. So much so that the judoka worked hard. And the successes ended up adding up.
A question of instinct
Angelo Tematieu has a different approach to fighting. The brown belt doesn’t watch the videos like their rivals usually do. “It’s during the fight that it happens,” he summarizes. I adapt according to what my opponent does.”
He won’t change his habits for Peru. However, his training volume will increase, he goes to the gym to develop his muscular power and jumps four days a week on the judo floor.
The costs associated with the World Championship are significant. The student-athlete has a job to raise the necessary amount. We can also help him achieve his dream via the crowdfunding campaign. online
A recognized coach
Angelo Tematieu has been practicing judo for 9 years at the Budokäi Center located in Châteauguay. He counts on the good teachings of Stephen Bertrand.
He was recently honored by Judo Québec, which highlighted his 15 years as technical director.
2024-06-26 19:02:00
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