Author: Slovak Judo Federation
A new week brings new challenges as the ‘Millennium Team’ Cadet European Judo Tour moves on to Šamorín, Slovakia, on 14–15 February. With 670 athletes from 22 countries entered, the stage is set for another exciting edition of the Cadet European Cup, where Europe’s rising stars will look to make their mark.
Leading the home charge is Vivien Vadovicova (SVK), currently WRL #32 in the –52kg category and a fifth-place finisher at last year’s Cadet European Championships. Joining her is Daniel Palko (SVK) in the –55kg category, who narrowly missed the podium at this very event last season. Competing in front of a home crowd always carries added emotion and expectation. “I am very excited to compete here at home. This is my last year as a cadet, therefore I want to give my best to succeed here. Getting a medal at home is one of the main goals this year,” said Vivien Vadovicova.
International attention will be firmly on world #1, Roman Semyrozum (CAN) in the –60kg category and world #1, Sebastian Teran (USA) in the –55kg category. Both multiple Cadet Panamerican Cup medallists arrive in Šamorín as strong contenders, ready to test themselves against Europe’s best.
Another name to watch is Khazar Heydarov (UKR), WRL #3 in –60kg and a proven performer with medals from the EYOF, cadet European and World Championships. In the –73kg category, Adam Rusnak (CZE), WRL #3 and cadet European silver medallist, also stands out among the favourites.
Top-seeded in the –90kg division is Tajus Babaicenko (LTU), fresh from gold at last weekend’s opening stop of the EJU Cadet Tour in Rome. With an impressive list of EYOF, European and World Cadet medals, he arrives with strong momentum. Meanwhile, Jagoda Ciupek (POL) leads the –57kg category after a consistent medal-winning run on last season’s Cadet Tour.
The new season also signals the arrival of many judoka stepping up into the cadet ranks. Šamorín will serve as an important starting point for several former EJU Hopes Cup medallists, including Adam Markovics (SVK), Silvia Kilackova (SVK), Raffay Zsofia (HUN) and Yonatan Blum (ISR), among others eager to begin their journey on the continental stage.
“We are happy to welcome the athletes once again here in Šamorín. This Cadet European Cup is a great opportunity to show the EJU that Slovakia is a strong host for such competitions, especially after last year’s Junior European Championships in Bratislava. We wish all athletes the best of luck in Slovakia,” said Jozef Tomanek, Vice President of the Slovak Judo Federation.
With local favourites, international contenders and a new generation stepping forward, anticipation is building for a memorable weekend of cadet judo. See you in Šamorín!
Author: EJU Media