The European Judo Union President, Dr TOTH Laszlo, wears many hats. Not only does he captain the EJU, but is President of the Hungarian Judo Association and Vice President of the International Judo Federation. Above all however, President Toth is a judoka through and through, and as most in the Accor Arena today, was looking forward to the spectacle that is the Paris Grand Slam.
I would like to congratulate the organisers, and not only those today, but those of the past 50 editions, and everyone who has contributed to creating this beautiful event. It is a really strong atmosphere that contributes to the development here, the crowds that have made this and continue to make it the grand event that we see today. So from myself, I wish a happy birthday to the Paris Grand Slam!
Of course the Paris Grand Slam is renowned for delivering one of the most knowledgeable and passionate crowds in the world, and in a matter of months will move across the city to the Champ-de-Mars Arena. Though the crowd is here for the Grand Slam, many are already experiencing the intense pre-games feeling here in Paris, including President Toth.
Already I have such a positive feeling, and I have great hopes for the Olympic Games, I’m sure we will see the same support for the judoka and the same strenght from Europe.
Author: Thea Cowen