Judo: Strong start for the hosts in Astana
Judo: Strong Start for the Hosts in Astana
A Thriving Return to the Capital
Judo – The World Judo Tour rekindled its presence in Astana, Kazakhstan, for the 2026 Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam, drawing a vibrant crowd eager to witness the high-stakes action. The event, held at a packed venue, promised a mix of local pride and international competition, with athletes from across the globe converging to showcase their skills. Among the notable attendees was Republic of Kazakhstan President His Excellency Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who joined International Judo Federation President Mr. Marius Vizer to support the home team’s efforts. The atmosphere was electric, as fans cheered for their favored competitors, adding to the dynamic energy of the arena.
-60kg: A Silver Medal for the Home Nation
One of the early highlights of the day came in the -60kg category, where Kazakhstan’s Talgat Orynbasar faced off against Sukhbat Byambasuren of Mongolia. This was Orynbasar’s second consecutive appearance in the finals of his home tournament, a testament to his consistent performance on the global stage. Despite his experience, Byambasuren emerged victorious, securing his first grand slam title with a decisive display of skill. The silver medal was presented to Orynbasar by Mr. Nurlan Zhakupov, CEO of the Sovereign Wealth Fund “Sumruk-Kaznya,” who took the time to acknowledge the athlete’s efforts. Byambasuren’s triumph underscored the competitive spirit of the event, even as the Kazakh team continued to make a strong impression.
-48kg: A Surprise Victory for Amber Gersjes
In the -48kg division, the spotlight shifted to Amber Gersjes, a Dutch competitor who faced Narantsetseg Ganbaatar of Mongolia. Gersjes, known for her precision and adaptability, found herself in a tightly contested match that had fans on the edge of their seats. With a well-timed yuko, she managed to secure the win, marking her first grand slam gold. The moment was celebrated with enthusiasm, as the Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Yerbol Myrzabossy nov, was present to present the medals. His presence highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting sports initiatives, which are increasingly becoming a cornerstone of national identity.
-52kg: A Narrow Escape for Blandine Pont
The -52kg category delivered another nail-biting encounter, pitting Blandine Pont of France against Khorloodoi Bishrelt of Mongolia. The match was characterized by its intensity, with both athletes demonstrating exceptional technique and resilience. Pont, a seasoned competitor, edged out her opponent with a strategic yuko, claiming the gold medal in a thrilling finish. The award ceremony was conducted by Mr. Naser Al Tamimi, General Treasurer of the International Judo Federation, who praised Pont’s performance. This victory added to the momentum of the day, reinforcing the idea that the Kazakh hosts were not only competing but also inspiring their international counterparts.
-66kg: A Tactical Masterclass by Saigid Kerimov
The -66kg class became a standout moment of the day, as Uzbek Saigid Kerimov faced Russia’s Abdurakhim Nutfulloev. Kerimov’s victory was a masterclass in tactical execution, with his unique use of the kata-guruma technique proving pivotal. This move, which involves a spinning throw, allowed him to capitalize on a brief opening and secure the gold medal. The crowd erupted in applause as Kerimov celebrated his win, a symbol of his growing reputation as a formidable contender. His success highlighted the innovative strategies being employed by athletes from Central Asia, adding a new layer to the global judo narrative.
-57kg: Faiza Mokdar’s Dominant Performance
The -57kg final was an all-French affair, with Faiza Mokdar challenging Chloe Devictror in a battle of local talent. Mokdar’s dominance was evident from the outset, as she swiftly took control of the match and pinned her compatriot with a well-placed technique. The final score was a clear statement of her superiority, and the gold medal was awarded by Benjamin Lakatos, Chairman and Group CEO of MET Group, a key partner of the International Judo Federation. His presence added a touch of international prestige to the ceremony, while Mokdar’s win sent a strong message about the depth of French judo’s talent pool.
The Atmosphere and Legacy of the Event
Astana’s judo community was abuzz with excitement, as the home team’s performance continued to resonate with both spectators and athletes. The event’s organizers emphasized the importance of hosting the Grand Slam, aiming to elevate Kazakhstan’s profile in the world of sports. This was not just a competition but a platform for showcasing the nation’s commitment to judo, a sport that has long been a source of national pride. The consistent results from Kazakh competitors, combined with the passionate crowd, created an atmosphere that was both motivating and electrifying. Each match brought new energy, with fans waving flags and chanting in support, creating a sense of unity that transcended the competition itself.
Looking Ahead to the Next Day
As the first day of the Grand Slam concluded, the organizers expressed their confidence in the event’s ability to draw even greater attention in the days to come. The two medals won by Kazakh athletes were a fitting start, but the potential for more was evident. The second day would feature the middle-weights, a category that typically sees fierce competition and high stakes. Fans and analysts alike were already speculating about which athletes would make a lasting impact. The tournament’s structure, with its mix of local and international participants, ensured that every match would be a story worth telling. From the technical mastery of experienced fighters to the explosive performances of newcomers, the event promised to deliver a diverse array of moments that would be etched in memory.
International Recognition and Local Triumph
The presence of high-profile figures like President Tokayev and Vizer added to the event’s significance, as their support underscored the global reach of Kazakh judo. While the home team’s athletes were the focus of many conversations, international competitors also played a crucial role in raising the standard of the competition. The blend of local pride and global excellence created a unique environment where every bout was a testament to the sport’s universal appeal. The day’s results, though modest, set the tone for a tournament that aimed to leave a lasting legacy. As the sun set over Astana, the energy of the event lingered, with fans still buzzing about the performances they had witnessed. The path to the final days of the competition was clear, but the journey promised to be as unpredictable as it was thrilling.
The first day of the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam in Astana was a celebration of both tradition and innovation in judo. With two medals to its name, the host nation demonstrated its ability to compete at the highest level, while the international athletes brought a new dimension to the event. The combination of strong performances and enthusiastic crowd support set a high bar for the rest of the tournament. As the competition moves forward, the focus will shift to the middle-weights, a category that has the potential to produce even more dramatic moments. The journey of these athletes, from their initial steps on the mat to the final stages of the tournament, will be a source of inspiration for jud
