GAMES AND JUDO SPIRIT MEET AS BAKU 2015 BEGINS

George KERR – EJU guest and 10th Dan:

“To have the Europeans every fours years with the European Games is a good idea. Regarding judo’s development as a games event it is incredible. Judo wouldn’t be what it is now had it not been for its inclusion in the games– the whole concept of judo fits wonderfully within the spirit of the games.”

Vladimir BARTA – EJU guest and IJF Head Sports Director:

“ It is always a pleasure to be with the judo family especially as a former European official.”

Jane BRIDGE-CHARLOT – EJU expert:

“At this Gala its very nice to meet so many people, have nice chats. With regard to the European Games it is a very exciting feeling. I am looking forward to this event.”

Patrick Roux – EJU expert:

“I am very thankful to be here alongside so many high level judoka. That shows that there is a lot of interest in the EJU expert project. As our slogan says: Judo is more than sport.”

Ilias ILIADIS (GRE) – Current World Champion -90kg:

“I feel very good and I am happy that I was invited to the gala. I think that these kind of events are important for the judo family.”

Neil ADAMS – EJU expert and TV-Commentator:

“Everybody is looking forward to the European Game. I think it is a good thing that the European championships are part of the European Games.”

Avtandili TCHRIKISHVILI (GEO) – Current World Champion -81kg:

“I am so happy to be invited for the Gala and for the prize as the Best European Male Judoka 2014. Concerning the European Games – it is so important for me. I trained hard and I want to win here.”

TOTH Krisztian (HUN) – World silver medallist -90kg:

“It was a big surprise to be invited here for the Gala. I like this kind of atmosphere and also the fact that I get to wear an elegant suit! The European Games will be a real test for me because I had a knee injury.”

Annamaria FRIDRICH (HUN) – IJF Referee:

“It is a beautiful place here for the Gala. These events are important. I feel very comfortable because I am here with the judo family. Concerning the competition I expect great and exciting fights.”

Simone CALLENDER – Sport Competition Manager, Heydar Aliyev Arena:

“For me as an organiser with BEGOC it is exciting to see how the preparations from the last months are working. Everybody worked hard to offer the best conditions. I am looking forward to this historical event. The fact that the visually impaired are also competing here makes it even more special.”