Gold at first sight in judo

While Monday was marked with expected gold medallists at the Jianyang Cultural and Sports Centre Gymnasium, the third day of judo competition at the Chengdu FISU World University Games also resulted in a couple of firsts.

Five different nations stood on top of the podium for the first time in the Sichuan capital city.

The men took to the tatami first, with Roland Goz winning the -90kg final. The Hungarian’s tactical game plan paid off and he deservedly beat Korean Han Juyeop.

The 24-year-old Goz, who studies at Wekerle Sandor Business College, is stepping up his form. After a good start to this season, he added a big achievement to his collection.

“Now I will enjoy this moment. Finally, I can relax now and there might even be a small party,” he honestly concluded his post-competition interview.

Japan’s dominance in Chengdu was once again confirmed by Mizuki Sugimura, who won her country’s ninth gold medal in the women’s -78kg final.

In the FISU Games overall standings, Japan (28) is now only two medals behind leader China (30).

“We are really strong,” said the student-athlete from Tokai University.

Japan could have added even more gold, but Falk Petersilka from Germany had other ideas in the men’s -100 kg title bout.

The 25-year-old was dominant and had no problem defeating Kaito Green, who is four years younger.

“I am proud about my country, because we already have a lot of medals,” happily said the University of Cologne student.

Prior to Petersilka’ achievement, Germany had yet to win a gold medal at the Chengdu FISU Games.

“I woke up and said everything is possible. I knew I must take this chance,” added the newly crowned champion.

Chinese fans erupted when home judoka Jia Chundi stepped on the tatami for the women’s +78kg final. The electrified crowd gave the 22-year-old power and strength to grab the gold after only a good minute of fighting.

“To be able to win this gold medal for the motherland and the rest of the university students I feel very excited,” proudly said the student at Civil Aviation University of China.

Late in the afternoon, Korea finally won its first gold medal of the day after collecting three silvers.

Kim Minjong decided it’s time to leave the venue with at least one gold. The Yong In University student beat Japanese rival Yuta Nakamura from Tokai University in the men’s +100kg title match.

The Chengdu FISU Games judo competition wraps up Tuesday with the team events.

Written by Miha Trošt, FISU Young Reporter