You can ask what difference a year can make, but for Mascha BALLHAUS (GER), it is a lot. Now she might be walking away with a medal of the same colour, but she explains she is a different athlete, and the only way is up.
My confidence has grown a lot because of good results but I really feel so so good physically, last year the bronze medal was a super surprise, I really had no expectations but this year I prepared really well.
Both Mascha and her sister Seija (-57kg European Champion) have been bounding up the rankings, securing success after success and now, on day two of the World Judo Championships, a bronze medal was well earned.
In grand fashion, and an exhausting golden score, it is simply incredible that Ballhaus was able to muster the strength to execute a medal-winning obi tori gaeshi against tough opponent, OMORI Kisumi (JPN).
First I was a bit scared because Japan are always strong, when we have fought before I have lost to her. Yes, we work a lot against this style of judo so I can feel more comfortable, I wanted to be close and the strategy was good this time, I mean it really worked!!
After securing the medal, she walked out to an emotional sister, Seija, who told her,
I can’t believe it, you did it again, you are so so strong!
It wasn’t only her sister but mother as well.
They all wanted to celebrate but I told them, we are not finished yet, I need you to focus and medal as well so we can go big tomorrow and yes we will find a bar for sure!!
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen