Croatia’s 18 finest judoka are ready to roll in the capital in just a matter of 10 days. Zagreb is ready to host the European Judo Championships Senior 2024. The final entry has been completed, meaning there are very few changes to be expected.
Ladies First
Barbara MATIC is the main talking point when it comes to the women’s division and she sits at #1 position of the -70kg category. We must not forget home rival Lara CVJETKO who is returning from an injury and yet, just as ready to impress the home crowd. Superstar, Katarina KRISTO is on a mission to qualify for the Paris Olympics in the -63kg category and with her recent performances she has that target within reach. Consistency is key and she must remain on form to secure her place. Same applies to Ana Viktorija PULJIZ in the -52kg category. Another young act joining Kristo in the -63kg, namely, Iva OBERAN. Meanwhile, Tihea TOPOLOVEC will test her skills in a rather tough category, the -57kg. As per the upper weight divisions, Karla PRODAN alongside Petrunjela PAVIC will seek to double on the hardware in the -78kg category whilst Helena VUKOVIC will take on all pressure via the heavy weights. How many medals will the famous Croatian women’s team win?
Gentleman – “The dark horses”
Zlatko KUMRIC is the highest ranked Croatian judoka at this particular tournament and he will be in action on day three, in the -100kg category. Tagging along in brotherhood, Marko KUMRIC will join within the same weight class. Josip BULIC is the host’s top choice in the -90kg category. One of the real dark horses, full of potential is Dominik DRUZETA. The Klacar family is bringing more siblings to the field of play with Robert competing in the -73kg category and Dani in the -66kg category. Joining the latter will be Nikola ZOROTOVIC. There are two more contenders left to mention, Lovre MRKOVIC (-90kg) and Dominik ROZIC (-81kg).
Competing on home ground comes with both, pressure and privilege. Whilst you don’t need to worry about any potential language barrier, you do have thousands of fans chanting your name whilst willing you to succeed. Can their 2024 Euro Team break the curse and win another European title after 50 years of waiting? Join us to find out via judotv.com.
Author: Szandra Szogedi