The Zagreb judo Grand Prix is ​​officially back for its second day.

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The Grand Prix was officially opened by Tomislav Druzak, Personal Representative of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia, Vice-President of the International Judo Federation Dr. Laszlo Toth and President of the Croatian Judo Federation Dr. Sanda Čorak made a speech and announced.

This was followed by an impressive local club, Judo Club Profectus and Judo Club Ishi, giving an inclusive judo demonstration to the applauding audience.

A packed crowd cheered for the -63kg athletes as Great Britain’s Lucy Renshall defeated Jisu Kim on penalties and, to fans’ delight, won her first Grand Prix gold medal.

The medals were presented by Tomislav Druzak, Personal Representative of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia.

Right Muki (ISR)

At -73kg, Spaniard Jorge Cano Garcia wins his first World Judo Tour medal with an incredible ippon that delights the crowd.

The medals were presented by Mohammed Meridja, IJF Director of Education and Coaching.

“I feel so good because of the gold, but it’s pretty good to get off the mat and sign someone’s autograph and take a few pictures and see the kids’ expressions,” Garcia said.

Israeli Sagi Muki came in behind to win two waza-ari and another gold for his collection.

Minister of Defense of the Republic of Croatia Ambassador Ivan Jusic presented the medals.

At -70kg it was the Croatian final that all the fans were waiting for, Lara Cvjetko fought hard and enjoyed the joy of taking the top spot on the podium by throwing a waza-ari against her compatriot Barbara Matic. Plenty of respect and friendship were shared between the two Croatian stars.

IJF Education Director Dr Sanda Çorak presented the medals.

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“It was a really great feeling to be part of the big crowd that supported both of us, and when I heard the kids, my loved ones, my coach and everyone applauding for me, I felt really motivated for the challenge. “It was a really special feeling, but also a really tough challenge,” Cvjetko said.

Here at the Zagreb Arena, local Croatian judokas were stylishly scoring ippon goals to the delight of the packed crowd of young judokas. An inspiring sight for the next generation.

On the second day of the Zagreb Grand Prix, the world’s best judokas were showcased. There will be more tomorrow.