Kosovo hosted the first edition of the European Judo Championships Open. Thousands gathered in the capital, Pristina, to watch their local heroes competing on home soil for the first time. Besides the outstanding tournament, celebration of past achievements was also part of the agenda.
On Saturday, during the opening ceremony of the tournament, 2016 Olympic Champion, Majlinda KELMENDI and the President of the National Judo Federation of Kosovo, Mr Agron KUKA, both received the Best of the Best Award for their outstanding contribution to the judo community.
Before the final block, to express the appreciation and trust of the work from all involved, the Tokyo Plaquewas presented to the President of the Republic of Kosovo, Mrs. Vjosa OSMANI as well as to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Mr Albin KURTI.
Later that day, further achievements were acknowledged such as Tokyo golden duet’s, Distria KRASNIQI and Nora GJAKOVA, alongside their fearless leader, Driton KUKA. All three individuals received the Tokyo Plaque too.
Two referees were called up on to receive The Most Progressive European Referee 2022 awards. Martina PRGOMET of Croatia took the glory across the female runners whilst Nazim UMBAYEV of Azerbaijan excelled thru all male candidates.
Author: Szandra Szogedi