The Mongolian judoka, Erdenebayar Batzaya, was the local hero of the second day of competition, obtaining the bronze in – 73 kg.
Mongolia, the land of Chinggis Khan, a vast landscape steeped in tradition, but it is also home to the bustling city of Ulaanbaatar, which experienced the second day of its second judo Grand Slam. The opening ceremony was led by wonderful performances by local artists, a true display of traditional culture.
The Secretary General of the International Judo Federation (IJF), Dr. Lisa Allan, opened the competition together with the Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of Mongolia, Mr. Sodbaatar Yangug.
At -63kg, Nabekura Nami was back in top form, with quick footwork taking the deciding score in the final. The Japanese judoka could not contain her joy.
Bat-Erdene Badmaanyambuu, Mongolian Minister of Sports, presented the medals.
“I am very happy to have fans in Mongolia, it has been wonderful to meet all the young fans and sign autographs for them,” Nabekura Nami told reporters.
Ken Oyoshi executed this amazing counter attack to clinch the -73kg title.
A nice moment he shared with his coach, immediately followed by a great welcome from his Mongolian family: a group of young fans eager to take a selfie and meet their idol.
And it was the Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of Mongolia who presented him with the medal.
Oyoshi Ken told the media: “I am very happy to show my best performance here in Mongolia, it was a real pleasure to show my best to the young judo fans here.”
In -70 kg Tanaka Shiho achieved a tactical victory over the Croatian Cvjetko, and also celebrated it with the judo-loving public.
Dr. Lisa Allan, IJF General Secretary, presented him with the medal.
At -81 kg, Kohara Kenya captured Japan’s fourth gold medal on the second day of the Grand Slam with a thrilling one-handed uchi-mata attack.
The medals were awarded by Zundui Tumustumuu, deputy governor of the city of Ulaanbaatar.
Erdenebayar Batzaya was the hometown hero of day two, putting on a spirited display of talent in their -73kg bronze medal bout.
There he brought the crowd to its feet with a clever change of direction, giving all the Mongolian fans present a great opportunity to cheer him on!
A fantastic way to end the second day of the Grand Slam in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, don’t miss the final day tomorrow.
