The Portuguese Olympic Committee (COP) celebrated the best in national sports during the 2024 Olympic year at its prestigious Olympic Celebration Gala, hosted at the SUD Hall Lisboa. The evening highlighted exceptional achievements, with three judoka, Patrícia SAMPAIO, Taís PINA, Telma MONTEIRO, as well as coach, Marco MORAIS, receiving distinguished accolades for their contributions to Portuguese judo.
Patrícia Sampaio: Sports Excellence Award
Sampaio was honoured with the Sports Excellence Award for her outstanding performance at the Paris Olympics, where she secured a bronze medal in her weight category. Reflecting on her recognition, Sampaio said:
That day I was speechless; now, I am still speechless. I had already received the Youth award, but I always wanted to be here receiving the adult version. Thank you, and may the show continue.
Taís Pina: Youth Prize
Rising star Taís Pina earned the Youth Prize, recognising her impressive journey on the Olympic circuit. Her season included a gold medal at the Kazakhstan Grand Slam, a silver medal at the Antalya Grand Slam, and a fifth-place finish at the Paris Grand Slam. Grateful for the honor, Pina shared:
I am very happy to receive this award, a sign of dedication.
Telma Monteiro: Prestige Award
Monteiro was celebrated with the Prestige Award for her remarkable career spanning 25 years. Her illustrious achievements include five Olympic appearances, highlighted by her bronze medal in Rio 2016, five World Championship medals, and 15 European Championship podium finishes, including six titles. Monteiro also expressed her gratitude:
It is always very special because it is an award granted by the COP, an entity that I respect a lot. I. I had very good connections with President José Manuel Constantino. I want to thank those who helped me be the best version of myself, Dr. Pereira de Castro, Rita, my training colleagues.
Marco Morais: Sports Merit Award
Morais was recognised with the Sports Merit Award for his role in guiding Olympic medalists. As he was attending the U23 European Championships in Poland, the award was accepted on his behalf by Mr. Joaquim Sergio PINA, the President of the Portuguese Judo Federation.
The gala served as a night of inspiration and celebration for Portuguese judo, acknowledging the athletes’ dedication, achievements, and the legacy they continue to build for the sport.
Images: Portuguese Olympic Committee / Text: Miguel Galhardas
Author: Szandra Szogedi