Russia again best judo nation at Cadet Europeans in Vantaa

After the two days of the individual tournament of the Cadet European Championships in the Finnish city Vantaa, Russia won four gold medals. There were two titles for France, Serbia, Azerbaijan and the Ukraine and a few countries had some extraordinary performances such as gold for Spain and Latvia.

Also silver for host Finland and silver for Denmark were highlights of this European youth Championship.

At the second day there were three gold medals for Russia. Georgia won its first medal of the event while they have a reputation in this age category. This time it was Eteri Liparteliani U63kg to claim the only gold medal for the Georgians where women’s judo found a place. Anja Obradovic won gold for Serbia while sister Jovana took bronze, fortunately the two sisters didn’t meet eachother. For Serbia it was the second gold medal of the tournament. The last gold medal of the day was captured by Hungarian Richard Sipocz who was one of the most successful athletes this year at the European Cups. France won the gold in the women’s heavyweight division by Romane Dicko.

Also the Ukraine won a gold medal, the second of the tournament, now Mykyta Matlashevskyi won gold U81kg where he defeated Finnish hope Oskari Makinen in the final. A standing ovation celebrated Finland’s silver medallist, Oskari Mäkainen. Once he bowed off the tatami after the final contest of the U81kg category. The 16 years old judoka did a terrific job. All of his contest won by breath-taking throws. Mäkinen expressed his thoughts after the final, "I didn’t feel any pressure by fighting at home soil. I was able to keep my game cap on which I am pleased about. On the other hand, the support of the home crowd was incredible and I am really grateful for all who came to support us. Of course, my goal was to win it but I have to say it is not at all a sad silver for me and in all fairness, my Ukrainian opponent in the final Mykyta Matlashevskyi, was a league above me today” he told the EJU reporters.

Denmark was joyful about the silver U90kg by Mathias Madsen, it was the first medal since 2006 and the best ever performance of a Danish judoka in this age category.

Last year in Sofia Russia also won four gold medals followed by a few other nations with two gold medals, just like this year. Daria Bilodid (UKR) was the only athlete who prolonged her title, but in this case one weight category higher.