European judo is visiting Gori this time, a beautiful small city in Georgia, distinguished by its rich sporting traditions. Gori is the hometown of several Olympic and world champions, including Georgian judo legend Lasha Shavdatuashvili, who is himself an Olympic, World and European champion.
Sport, and especially judo, is deeply loved in Gori. Fans are eagerly awaiting spectacular contests. On 9–10 May, the tatami at the Gori Sports Palace will welcome nearly 191 athletes from 18 countries.
Georgian athletes are preparing with special responsibility for the European Cup taking place on home soil. Among them is Jumber Meladze in the -81 kg category, who approaches the competition in his hometown in great shape and with high expectations:
“I prepared very well for the competition. I had a training camp in Hungary, then continued with very good physical preparation in Tbilisi together with my coaches. I also managed my weight cut perfectly, and now I’m ready to fight.”
Meladze was asked how important it is for him personally to compete at home, and what he promises the fans.
“For me personally, it is very important that a tournament of this level is being held in my country, and even more important that it is taking place in my hometown, where even greater responsibility is expected of me. To the fans, I promise that I will give my absolute maximum and fight for the gold medal,” he said.
Gori is known as a famous sporting city, especially for judo, and the support from the fans will certainly be special. How much can the crowd help him achieve success?
Meladze wasted no time in sharing his thoughts: “Gori truly is a very sporting city, especially when it comes to combat sports. As you know, so many famous and successful judoka come from Gori. I won’t start listing them because I don’t want to leave anyone out.
“As for the fans, my family members, friends and relatives will all be there, and they won’t let me take a step back. That gives us double the strength, especially when we are tired.”
Finally, Georgia is already hosting its fifth international tournament in a row this year. How important is this for the country in Meladze’s view?
“The fact that Georgia is already hosting its fifth tournament in a row at the beginning of this year shows the growing popularity of judo among the people. This will attract even more young people, show them the right path, and help shape them into future judoka.”
Follow all the action live online from Gori via JudoTV.
Author: Keti Bachvelashvili
Author: EJU Media