It’s day 2 of the Guadalajara Judo Grand Prix in Mexico.
The arena burst into life with the opening ceremony, filled with spectacular performances and opening speeches. In attendance was Mrs Lillian ESTRADA President of the Mexican Judo Federation and the speech were given by Luis Rivera, Deputy Director of Sport Quality, and Fernando Ortega, General Director of the Jalisco Sports Institute. The event was officially opened by Vladimir Barta, Head Sports director of the International Judo Federation.
The crowd was electric as local and international heroes took to the tatami throughout the day.
In the -63kg final, current world champion Haruka KAJU of Japan faced Jessica KLIMKAIT of Canada, this was their first meeting in a final. It was KAJU who demonstrated her total dominance on the ground, executing a beautiful transition to secure the hold down and gold.
The medals were presented by CONADE High Performance Director, Mr Luis RIVERA.
The -73kg final saw current Olympic champion, Hidayat HEYDAROV, in his first final since the 2024 Olympic Games. He seems to have now found his form, and caught his opponent with his most dynamic moment of the day. Gold for HEYDAROV.
I have loved the tour in Latin America. Both countries are very beautiful. The main purpose for me coming here is to train and prepare for the competitions here next year.
His medal was awarded by CODE Jalisco Director General, Mr Fernando ORTEGA RAMOS.
The -70kg final featured Lara CVJETKO of Croatia against Dena POHL of Germany.
In a tense battle, only a single yuko score from CVJETKO would be needed to claim victory.
Another gold medal for the Croatian’s collection.
I thought it was going to be an Ippon because of the way she flew and fell. And then I looked and the referee gave yuko, And I thought ‘yeah it’s because I let go of my hands’. That’s something to work on
She received her medal from IJF Head Referee Director, Mr Armen BAGDASAROV.
In the -81kg final, Vusal GALANDARZADE of Azerbaijan closed out the day with a show-stopping Ura Nage. A perfectly seized opportunity saw GALANDARZADE take home the gold.
The medals were awarded by IJF Ambassador & IJF Medical Commission Chair, Dr Antonio CASTRO.
The home team put on a standout show for the local crowd, showcasing the passion of Mexican judo on and off the mat.
We’ll be back tomorrow when it’s time for the heavyweights.