Sabsi Filzmoser says farewell in Linz

The Austrian Judo Federation and IJF paid a tribute to Sabrina Filzmoser who had an incredible career and who made Linz the venue for her retirement. Sabrina Filzmoser fought in 4 Olympic Games, won two world medals, was twice European champion and recently, just a year ago, climbed to the summit of Everest, where she left her black belt as a symbol of the judo values reaching the top of the world.

A special highlights film was shown in the arena, noting 3 particularly important moments in Sabrina’s career. There was the moment she won world bronze in Tokyo 2010, throwing with o-uchi-gari against Lupetey (CUB) for the medal. Then there was an example of perfect timing, throwing Spanish judo hero Isabel Fernandez with uchi-mata in the final of the Lisbon European Championships. Last but not least was the 2011 European final against Monteiro (POR), only 5 days after losing her friend and teammate Claudia Heill: an emotional walk down memory lane.

Martin Poiger then spoke again about all Sabrina has given to Austrian judo, from her inspiration for the younger ones to her professionalism which never wavers. Sabrina was then presented with a large framed photograph from that Lisbon Europeans, her first gold at the continual flagship event. “Ludwig Paischer was fighting before me and won gold and then I did it too, so it was the first time ever for Austria to have two continental titles in one championship.”

Then followed the presentation of Sabrina’s 6th dan which was a complete surprise, “It is very special as in Austria it’s based on so much more than results. To be nominated and then presented with my new IJF grade is something I am already incredibly proud of. Thank you to both my team and the IJF for honouring me this way, said Sabsi.

“I’m not good at this kind of thing and if I talk too much I will be overwhelmed. I am proud of all my friends, the volunteers and the spectators. All of my club are here and are standing for me. 34 clubs from Upper Austria sent us their volunteers and this is wonderful. To organise an IJF event is a big challenge as the standard is always so high but we tried our best. From next year on we will really know all these details that we learned here and will make it even better again. Thank you to everyone.”