This past weekend, Slovenia showcased its judo prowess not only in Sarajevo with the senior team but also on home ground, excelling among the cadets. Demonstrating both skill and determination, the Slovenian team secured the top position on the overall medal standings by claiming three gold, two silver, and one bronze medal (3-2-1). Croatia (3-1-4) and Serbia (2-3-1) closely followed, highlighting a competitive weekend of judo across the region.
The host nation’s success was evident from the very first day, with Slovenian athletes delivering memorable performances in the finals. Gal Blazic (SLO) claimed victory in the -60kg category with a well-executed sutemi-waza technique, overpowering Nikola RADANOV (SRB). In the -52kg category, Zarja MASTNAK (SLO) swiftly defeated Giulia BONZANO (ITA) within the first minute, catching her off guard with a decisive kansetsu-waza.
The home crowd witnessed yet another thrilling win as Leon MAROSEK (SLO) secured gold in the -90kg category. Marosek’s powerful uchi-mata and ko-uchi-gake combinations proved too much for his opponent, Nemanja SIMIC (SRB), capping off Slovenia’s victories in the finals.
Overall, it was an impressive weekend for the Slovenian judo team, with achievements both domestically and internationally. Following this success, the team’s journey continues with a three-day training camp in Koper, preparing for future challenges. The next cadet European Cup will be held in Györ, Hungary, on November 9-10, 2024.
Author: Szandra Szogedi