On Day 2 of the São João da Madeira “Millennium Team” Cadet European Cup 2025, the high temperatures came from the North of Europe. Latvia’s Tits KULLO stunned the crowd with a lightning-fast ippon in just 8 seconds to secure the gold medal in the -81kg category. It was the perfect finish to an amazing sharp day, where he won every match by ippon.
In the -90kg category, it was Norway’s Marius SUNDBY who took the top spot on the podium, adding a Nordic touch to a day full of surprises. Kazakhstan may not have dominated quite like they did on Day 1, but they certainly didn’t fade — their athletes clinched gold in the remaining two male categories.
In the women’s division, it was Italy and Spain who shared the spotlight 50-50, taking two golds each. Anita COMBA and Giorgia GRASSI delivered for Italy, while Visitacion ESCASO HURTADO and Ballalo COULIBALY TOURE stood out for Spain.
Adding even more prestige to the event was the presence of an Olympic legend — Rosa Mota, the iconic long-distance runner who took the world by surprise when she won marathon gold at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. A long-time judo supporter, her visit was a source of inspiration for the young athletes.
Another stage of the circuit has come to an end, leaving great moments for these young judokas who, with the talent and determination shown in São João da Madeira, will certainly shine in the coming years.
Author: Portuguese Judo Federation
Author: EJU Media