The draw for the -73 kg class on the Portimão Senior European Cup 2024 sparked pleasure with the inclusion of Jack Yonezuka, a distinguished judoka from america, whose earlier success in Portugal noticed him declare silver on the 2023 junior world championships in Odivelas.
Proper from the beginning, Yonezuka made it clear that he was in prime type, securing a commanding victory in his opening contest towards Saba Danelia from Portugal, who was no match for the American’s talent in ne-waza as Yonezuka delivered a flawless submission to advance to the subsequent spherical. Dealing with Norway’s Yoan Tutunarov, Yonezuka’s mastery of ne-waza as soon as once more grew to become a decisive issue. Regardless of Tutunarov’s consciousness of Yonezuka’s floor sport prowess and his efforts to keep away from it, he was ultimately penalised with a 3rd shido, resulting in the American’s victory.
Because the solar brightened the Portimão Area, the warmth inside intensified throughout Yonezuka’s semi-final match towards Daniel Pacitti of Nice Britain. The bout captivated the gang, with Yonezuka managing to capitalise on a second when he was pushed in the direction of the sting of the mat. The American executed a wonderfully timed seoi-nage, touchdown Pacitti for Ippon and securing his spot within the closing.
Earlier than his closing showdown, Yonezuka drew inspiration from his teammates, Sara Golden and Isabella Garriga, who every received bronze of their respective classes. The show of teamwork and success clearly added gas to his dedication. Within the closing, Yonezuka confronted Cameron Charles, one other British judoka. Nonetheless, Charles couldn’t derail Yonezuka’s momentum. In a swift show of technical superiority, the American utilized a exact ne-waza approach, ending the competition in simply over two minutes and claiming the gold medal.
Nonetheless, Yonezuka wasn’t the one judoka who dazzled the viewers along with his mastery of groundwork. Portuguese judoka Bernardo Tralhão Fernandes made waves all through the day along with his personal good ne-waza expertise. Aptly described as a “ne-waza killer,” Fernandes displayed impeccable management and finesse, leaving none of his opponents in a position to defend towards his submissions.
Day one of many Portimão Senior European Cup delivered an unforgettable spectacle of talent, precision, and sweetness, mixing the fierce competitiveness inside the sector with the nice and cozy, sunny ambiance outdoors. It was a day the place approach and style got here collectively to create one thing actually particular. By the top of the day, Portugal led the medal desk, including to the thrill for day two.
All eyes will now flip to Catarina Costa, Portugal’s Olympic hero, who can be trying to bounce again from the frustration of Paris 2024 and make her mark on house soil, this time, within the -52kg class. The competitors guarantees to proceed delivering memorable moments, and if day one is any indication, we are able to count on extra thrilling judo performances underneath the Algarve solar.
Textual content and Pictures: Miguel Galhardas
Creator: Szandra Szogedi
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