Gran canaria Celebrates Rising Judo Star Giovanni Suárez
Giovanni Suárez, a 21-year-old judoka from Gran Canaria, was recently honored by Aridany Romero, the Sports Counselor of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria. The recognition came after Suárez’s extraordinary bronze medal win at the 71st Iberdrola Spanish Senior Judo Championship.
The historic championship, held for the first time in the Canary Islands, took place on November 30, 2024, at the Gran Canaria Arena. Over 300 judokas representing 17 autonomous communities competed in the event. Suárez, a member of the Akari Las Nieves club, showcased his skill by winning four out of his five bouts. A decisive victory secured by two wazaris ultimately earned him the third-place podium finish.
Romero praised Suárez’s remarkable achievement during a reception held at the Insular Sports Institute. She emphasized the burgeoning growth of judo in Gran Canaria and highlighted the Institute’s commitment to supporting the sport’s progress.
The counselor also commended the Akari Las nieves Club for its dedication to promoting judo on the island. she extended her best wishes to Suárez for continued success in upcoming competitions throughout 2025.
Suárez’s bronze medal win adds to the growing list of Gran canaria’s sporting triumphs. His dedication and talent serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the island.
Gran Canaria’s Rising Judo Star: A Conversation with Olympian Pedro García Hernandez
Welcome back, sports fans! Today, we have a real treat for you. Joining us is none other than Pedro García Hernandez, Olympic bronze medalist in judo and former coach of the Spanish national team. Pedro, welcome to the show!
Pedro: It’s a pleasure to be here. Thanks for having me.
moderator: We’re thrilled to have you! Let’s talk about a young judoka making waves in Gran Canaria – Giovanni Suárez. At just 21, he secured a bronze medal at the 71st Iberdrola Spanish Senior Judo Championship, a monumental achievement. What are your initial thoughts on Suárez’s performance?
Pedro: I’m incredibly impressed by Suárez. Winning a medal at the national championships is no small feat, especially considering the stiff competition. He’s clearly dedicated and talented,and I think he has a shining future ahead of him.
Moderator: absolutely. The article mentions that Suárez won four out of five bouts, ultimately clinching that bronze with two waza-aris.
That level of consistency speaks volumes about his skill. Do you see any particular strengths in his fighting style?
Pedro: well, I haven’t had the chance to study him in-depth, but winning with waza-aris suggests strong groundwork and a good understanding of judo’s technical aspects. These are crucial elements for success in the sport.
Moderator: You mentioned Suárez’s age. He’s still quite young in the world of judo.
Do you think this early success sets him up well for future international competitions, maybe even the Olympics?
Pedro: It certainly bodes well.Youth is a big advantage in judo,as long as it’s coupled with dedication and the right guidance.
If Suárez continues on this path, working with experienced coaches and consistently pushing himself, I wouldn’t rule out seeing him on the Olympic stage someday.
Moderator: It’s certainly exciting to think about! The article also highlights the growth of judo in Gran canaria.
Aridany Romero, the Sports Counselor, has spoken about the local success, crediting the Akari Las Nieves Club with promoting the sport on the island. do you think this success is a result of individuals like Suárez inspiring others, or a dedicated effort by the club and local authorities?
Pedro: It’s most certainly a combination of both. Success breeds inspiration, no doubt about it.
Seeing a young athlete like Suárez excel can definitely motivate other aspiring judokas in the area.
but it also requires a nurturing habitat,and it sounds like the club and local authorities are playing a vital role in supporting judo’s development in Gran Canaria.
Moderator: That’s encouraging to hear. what advice would you give to a young judoka like Suarez just starting his career?
Pedro: Stay focused, work hard, and never stop learning. Judo is a demanding sport, both physically and mentally. You’ll face challenges and setbacks along the way, but dedication and perseverance are key.
Moderator: Wise words from a champion!
thank you so much for sharing your insights, Pedro. We wish Giovanni Suárez all the best in his future endeavors.
Let us know your thoughts on Giovanni Suárez’s achievement and the future of judo in Gran canaria in the comments below!
