While most eyes are on the Senior European Judo Championships in Zagreb, the cadets are stealing some focus in the Telavi Cadet European Cup. There will be 209 young contenders from 14 nations, many of whom are fighting for the host nation, however we have many from further afield including Kyrgyzstan and India as well as small nations like Greece.
Of course the Georgian team will have extra motivation on home soil and support from friends and family, there are some true talents rising through the ranks including Cadet World silver medallist, Tsotne BAKHTADZE in the -73kg category. In the +90kg category, eyes will be on Marek-Adiran MASAK (EST), and in a country notorious for successful heavyweights, her will garner extra attention. Though Masak didn’t succeed in the prime cadet events in 2023, the experience fuelled him and he has medalled in every event since, including two gold medals in Fuengirola and Berlin.
A huge difference for the Georgian team is the influx of young women, with 50 competing this weekend, it is clear that the success of history-making Eteri LIPARTELIANI has had a great impact, as well as the mixed team success. It is compulsory now for nations that were previously dominant in mens categories to push their women as well, and this is a prime example of accomplishments as a result. The bronze medal from Liparteliani and gold from Vazha MARGVELASHVILI in the senior European tournament will be fuelling their younger team members over the 27th and 28th of April.
Follow the live draw at 18:00 CEST and 20:00 local time at JudoTV.com.
Author: Thea Cowen