The first day of the 2024 Thessaloniki Cadet European Cup brought thrilling performances and remarkable victories at the Alexandrio Sports Hall. This prestigious tournament showcased the talents of 439 athletes from 29 countries. Among the many highlights was Team Kazakhstan, who dazzled with an impressive haul of six medals (one gold, three silver, and two bronze) that created a significant buzz, securing the top spot in the medal standings.
Coach Meirlan Baimakhanbetov, reflected on the team’s success;
I did not expect so many medals. To be honest, I was only hoping for gold medals. I am very pleased today and hope to feel the same on the second day. The competition was incredibly high with so many brilliant teams participating. This is my first visit to Greece, and I love it here. While we came with a small team this year, I hope to return next year with a team three times larger, provided the tournament continues to align with our standards.
France also had much to celebrate, claiming five bronze medals in total. Among them was Mathilde AUREL, whose performance stood out as she navigated a significant challenge: competing in a new weight category. Aurel, a veteran of European Cups with prior medals in the -40kg category, made her debut in the -44kg division, earning a bronze medal. Aurel’s transition to the higher weight category was a test of her adaptability and skill. Reflecting on her achievement, she said:
In this competition, I competed for the first time in the -44kg category. I am happy now because I know I can succeed in this category, too. I weight only 41kg, which makes me light for -44kg but it gives me great satisfaction to know I can hold my ground against heavier athletes. My goal for next year is to represent France in the world and European Championships in 2025.
Text: Giannis Hatzidopavlakis / Images: Alex Katsoulis
Author: Szandra Szogedi