Flagbearers in judo: Valentin Houinato (BEN)

Valentin Houinato, an athlete with a journalistic flair, is set to represent Benin at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the -81kg judo category. Born in 1996, in Melun, France, Houinato currently resides in Arcueil, France, where he balances his life as a judoka and a journalist. He didn’t visit Benin for ten years. Standing at 178 cm tall, he is a determined competitor, despite his realistic outlook on his chances against the top-tier athletes in his category.

Houinato began his judo journey at the age of five, a decision influenced by his mother's reluctance to let him play football. Enrolled in Judo Club Maisons Alfort in Val de Marne, France, he quickly developed a passion for the sport. His technical repertoire includes Uchi-mata, O-uchi-gari, and Ura-nage, honed under the guidance of coaches Stéphane Trompille and Dimitri Dragin. In addition to judo, he also trains in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and will be a dangerous groundworker.

His competitive career is marked by perseverance and incremental success. Houinato's international debut came at the 2022 African Championships in Oran, where he finished fifth in the -81kg category. His notable achievements include a bronze medal at the 2024 Tunis African Open and three bronze medals in African Open events in 2023, held in Niamey, Dakar, and Yaoundé. Despite placing 33rd at the 2024 IJF World Championships in Abu Dhabi, Houinato remains undeterred, embracing the possibility of causing an upset at the Olympics.

Houinato's academic background is as impressive as his athletic achievements. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Information and Communication from the University of Paris and a Master's degree in Journalism from ESJ Pro Montpellier. As a journalist, he reports on social issues such as protests, racism, and inequalities for French public radio stations France Info and France Inter. This dual career reflects his deep understanding of media dynamics and public expectations, adding a unique dimension to his Olympic journey.

His personal life and values are equally compelling. Raised by his mother and grandparents in France, Houinato has a profound connection with animals, which he nurtures through his future ambition of opening an animal welfare center. His bond with his first judo coach, Eric Chauvin, whom he regards as a father figure, underscores the importance of mentorship in his life.

Houinato draws inspiration from a diverse group of sports figures, including boxer Muhammad Ali, tennis player Rafael Nadal, athlete Jesse Owens, and judoka Lucie Decosse. These idols have shaped his sporting philosophy, emphasizing resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of goals. His pre-competition rituals involve eating chocolate and fruit compote, and listening to music by French artists Dalida and Booba, which help him maintain focus and calm.

As he prepares for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Houinato remains hopeful and ambitious. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but is driven by the belief that his resilience and determination will lead him to success, but at least a good life story.

Judo Flagbearers so far (updated Thursday)

Amina Belkadi (ALG)

Ange Ciella Niragira (BUR)

Anna-Maria Wagner (GER)

Arnold Kisoka (COD)

Barbara Matic (CRO)

Djamila Silva (CPV)

Erlan Sherov (KGZ)

Gultaj Mammadaliyeva (AZE)

Hugo Cumbo (VAN)

Idalys Ortiz (CUB)

Iza Marenco (NCA)

Juan Postigos (PER)

Klen Kristofer Kaljulaid (EST)

Krisztian Toth (HUN)

Manita Shrestha Pradhan (NEP)

Maryam March Maharani (INA)

Michaela Polleres (AUT)

Nora and Akil Gjakova (KOS)

Peter Paltchik (ISR)

Philippe Abel Mettelus (HAI)

Richelle Anita Soppi Mbella (CAM)

Serdar Rahimov (TKM)

Temur Rakhimov (TJK)

Valentin Houinato (BEN)