A Bizarre Turn of Events …

FISU YR Luana Cruz during the Opening Ceremony

KAZAN – In a bizarre turn of events, the FISU Young Reporters Programme’s Brazilian journalist Luana Cruz will be reporting on her past sporting rival, as she attends the gold-medal final fight in women’s judo.

Cruz, just missed out on competing in Judo at the Summer Universiade after losing a final fight against Catiere’ Toledo for a place in the Brazilian squad earlier in the year.

Two months later, Cruz was selected amongst hundreds of applicants to be a part of the YRP in Russia.

Cruz, who will attend and report on Toledo’s Judo fight in the women’s 48kg final today, says she is not bitter about the unusual situation.

“Yes, I wish I was there, but at the same time I am happy to be working with judo, after all I’m a journalist and sports athlete,” said Cruz. “This confusion of feelings is normal, but I believe that everything has its time and now it is time to be a journalist!”

Cruz says her dedication to her journalist profession has impeded her Judo training to become professional. “Even though I stayed in second place, it was a great result, because I dedicate a few hours to training because I’m torn between the studies, placements in TV and press office of the Athletics Federation of my state.”

Cruz says that Toledo has worked hard for the spot in the finals and deserves to win. “I believe that yes, she is a very good athlete and dedicated to the morning and evening training. She trains hard and she is a member of the Brazilian national judo squad.”

Sporting green and yellow at Toledo’s match, patriotic Cruz is an example of great sportsmanship as she will passionately support her country, despite being her rival. “Of course I’d rather be right there,” she said with a laugh. “But if someone has to win this medal, I want it to go to Brazil. I cheer for the sport of my country, and I hope to write some good news about it!”

Leigh Ferguson/FISU Young Reporter (AUS)