MAZATLAN._ The 2022 First Force Tomoyoshi Yamaguchi National Judo Tournament concluded this Sunday at the SAM College, marking an exhilarating finale to three days of high-energy competition. This prestigious event showcased the nation’s top judo talents, drawing participants from across Mexico.
After intense matches and displays of skill, the tournament wrapped up with a series of thrilling victories, leaving spectators and athletes alike on the edge of their seats.
In the Men’s Over 100 Kilograms division, Sergio del Sol from Guanajuato emerged as the champion.His mastery of judo techniques on the tatami was unmatched, earning him the top spot. Del Sol’s final match against Juan Serrato of Durango was a display of precision and strategy, securing him the gold medal while Serrato claimed silver.
Sharing the bronze medal were Juan Mil from Veracruz and Carlos Franco from Chihuahua, both demonstrating exceptional skill throughout the competition.
In the Men’s Under 100 Kilograms category, Víctor Ochoa from Nuevo León dominated the field with his technical prowess. His final bout against alexis Esquivel of Jalisco was a testament to his aggressive yet calculated approach, earning him the championship title.
Julián Gutiérrez and Merlín León, both representing veracruz, rounded out the podium with their bronze medal performances.
The Women’s Over 78 Kilograms category saw Karina Corona from Chihuahua shine brightly.With an undefeated record and two decisive victories, Corona proved herself a formidable competitor. Evangelina Aldrete of Sonora secured second place, while Priscila Martínez from Campeche took home the bronze.
in the Women’s Under 78 Kilograms division, Jessica Gómez of Chiapas emerged as the undisputed champion. Her flawless performance,marked by three consecutive wins,highlighted her dominance in the category. Dafne Castañeda from Mexico City earned the silver medal with two victories,and Victoria Ortiz of Tabasco claimed bronze with one win.
This year’s tournament not only celebrated the athletes’ achievements but also underscored the growing popularity of judo in Mexico. With over 200 participants and thousands of spectators, the event set a new benchmark for national judo competitions, inspiring the next generation of martial artists.
Exclusive Interview with Judo Legend Víctor Ochoa: Reflecting on the 2022 First Force National Judo Tournament
Moderator: Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Víctor Ochoa, a judo icon and recent champion in the Men’s Under 100 kilograms division at the 2022 First Force Tomoyoshi Yamaguchi National Judo Tournament. Víctor, thank you for joining us.
Víctor Ochoa: Thank you for having me. It’s always an honour to discuss the sport I’m so passionate about.
Moderator: Let’s dive right in. The tournament this year was described as one of the most thrilling in recent memory, with over 200 participants and thousands of spectators. What was your experience like competing in such a high-stakes habitat?
Víctor Ochoa: It was incredible.The energy in the room was electric, and you could feel the passion from everyone—athletes, coaches, and spectators alike.competing at this level is always a challenge, but it’s also what drives us to push harder and refine our techniques.
Moderator: Speaking of techniques, your final match against Alexis Esquivel was a standout moment. Many described it as a masterclass in strategy. Can you walk us through your approach to that bout?
Víctor Ochoa: Absolutely. Alexis is a formidable opponent, and I knew I had to bring my best. My strategy was to stay aggressive but calculated. I focused on controlling the pace and looking for openings to execute my throws. It was a tough match, but I’m proud of how it played out.
Moderator: There’s been some debate about whether your aggressive style is enduring in the long term. critics argue it might leave you vulnerable against more defensive fighters. How do you respond to that?
Víctor Ochoa: (Laughs) I’ve heard that argument before,but I believe judo is about adapting to your opponent. Yes, I have an aggressive style, but it’s built on years of training and understanding the nuances of the sport. I’m constantly evolving my techniques to stay ahead.
Moderator: That’s a great point. Moving on, let’s talk about the broader impact of the tournament. This event highlighted Mexico’s growing judo talent.What does this mean for the future of the sport in the country?
Víctor Ochoa: It’s incredibly exciting.Judo is gaining traction in Mexico, and tournaments like this showcase the depth of talent we have. From sergio del Sol to Karina Corona, the athletes are proving that Mexico can compete on the global stage. It’s inspiring to see the next generation coming up through the ranks.
Moderator: speaking of global competition, do you think Mexico is ready to challenge conventional judo powerhouses like Japan and France?
Víctor Ochoa: We’re getting there. It takes time, but the foundation is being laid. Events like the First Force National Tournament attract international attention and provide our athletes with the platform they need to grow. With continued support, I believe we can make waves on the world stage.
Moderator: That’s a bold statement, and I’m sure our readers will have strong opinions on it. Speaking of which, let’s open this up to our audience. What do you think? Is Mexico on track to become a judo powerhouse? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Víctor Ochoa: I’d love to hear everyone’s perspective. Judo is a sport built on respect and community, and discussions like this help us grow.
moderator: Before we wrap up, let’s look ahead. What’s next for Víctor Ochoa?
Víctor Ochoa: I’m training hard for the upcoming international tournaments. my goal is to represent Mexico at the highest level and bring home more medals. It’s a long road, but I’m ready for the challenge.
Moderator: We’ll be rooting for you, Víctor. Thank you for sharing your insights and inspiring the judo community.
Víctor ochoa: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
What’s Your Take?
The 2022 first Force National Judo Tournament has sparked a wave of excitement among judo enthusiasts. Do you believe Mexico is poised to challenge traditional judo powerhouses? Who stood out to you from the tournament? Join the conversation in the comments below!
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