Lara Reimann shines for Germany at European Cup Berlin

Russia’s six gold medals at the close of day two of the European Cup for Cadets in Berlin saw them top the final medal table. Taking all four medals in the O90kg category the Russians capped a successful visit to what is widely regarded as one of Europe’s strongest cadet competitions. “It’s been a very strong tournament with quite a few very talented youngsters on show” said former British international Winston Gordon who now coaches in Munich.

The Russian males took five of the eight gold medals whilst, in contrast, the female team managed just the one with Ekaterina Dolgikh (RUS) defeating team-mate Anastasia Turcheva in the final. The European Cup, was held at the Sportforum Berlin-Hohenschonhausen, saw a total of 677 entries (396 male and 281 female) battling it out for the honours. Germany’s female team went some way to keeping the Russians in check taking three gold medals with Patrycia Szekely U52kg, Lara Reiman U63kg and Giovanna Scoccimarro in the U70kg category. 

“I’m pleased with my teams performance,” said former European champion and now Israeli cadet coach Ariel Zeevi. “We took a gold in the U60kg with Ofek Shani and a bronze in the U50kg category with Alon Aharon and I’m particularly happy because it’s my first gold medal as a coach, so things are looking good for us,” said a smiling Zeevi.