The second day of competition at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam ended on a high with the titles flying away to Beauchemin-Pinard, Ahadov, Taimazova and Karapetyan.
One of the major destinations on the judo calendar, the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, saw its second day of electrifying judo take place.
Canadian powerhouse Beauchemin-Pinard took gold at -63kg with a stunning action! A moment of pure splendor that lit up the Abu Dhabi arena.
“The technique I used was ura-nage. So when she came to attack, I caught her halfway. It all came from my legs, I’m like I can lift her up and twist in the air. So yes, it’s a massive technique and I don’t do it often, but when it works it’s great Ippon,” Beauchemin-Pinard said.
Max-Hervé George, CEO of Icona Capital, awarded Canada its second gold of the tournament.
Uzbek danger man Ahadov came to prove a point after taking bronze last year, and a spectacular final saw him defeat Kosovo’s Gjakova to give him his first Grand Slam title.
Olympic Council of Asia Vice President Otabek Umarov presented the medals.
“I feel very relaxed here in Abu Dhabi as if I were in Uzbekistan, at home. I love Abu Dhabi. Last year I won bronze here and now my first Grand Slam gold. I hope that in upcoming events and at the Olympics I will win gold and defend the honor of Uzbekistan,” Ahadov said.
At -70kg Madina Taimazova scored a clear victory over rising Swedish star Ida Eriksson.
The president of CEDCO Hungary, Michael Michaely, presented the medals.
What a final it was at -81kg with David Karapetyan taking on Dutch Dynamo Frank De Wit, both athletes flying through the air as Karapetyan got the deciding score. Judo expert on display.
UAE Judo Federation President Mohammed Bin Thaaloob Alderei awarded the medals
The UAE brought home a bronze medal for Nugzari Tatalashvili, bringing joy to all in attendance, with the President of the UAE Judo Federation leading the celebrations.
Image: Getty Images
Image:Getty Images
