Lausanne marked a major day for Swiss judo as the 2028 World Championships agreement was signed, the Grand Slam was officially opened and adaptive judo athletes joined the action. Aurélien Bonferroni’s bronze delighted the home crowd.
Welcome back the ECOLE MONT-OLIVET LAUSANNE GRAND SLAM in Switzerland and the Vaudoise Arena.
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Before the event Mr Marius Vizer, International Judo Federation president and Sergei Ashchwanden, Swiss Judo Federation president signed a contract to bring the 2028 world championships to Switzerland.
President Vizer then officially opened the grand slam. There were also speeches from: Ms Emilie Moëschler - Director of Sports and Social Cohesion for Lausanne, Ms Christelle Luisier Brodard - President of the Council of State of Vaud, Mr Sergei Aschwanden - President of the Swiss Judo Federation, Mr Demien Antoine - President of the Deaf International Judo Federation.
Additionally, Kazuhiro Mikami Sensei was awarded his 10th dan, the highest rank in judo.
Continuing the unity between the world tour athletes and the adaptive judo disciplines, today … deaf judoka were immersed in the grand slam competition, taking to the tatami alongside their peers.
On the mat, at -63 kg Angelika SZYMANSKA pounced on a failed attack from Manon DEKETER, deploying her trademark arm lock for the win.
Mr Christoph DUBI, IOC Olympic Games Executive Director was on hand to award the medals.
In the -73 kg final, with Swiss World Champion, Nils STUMP watching on, Daniel CARGNIN came back with a huge counter to take the gold medal.
He was awarded his medal by President of ASOIF, Mr Ingmar DE VOS.
Miriam BUTKEREIT and Giovanna SCOCCIMARRO of Germany both made it to the final at -70kg with BUTKEREIT judged the victor.
Mr Simon BENHAMOU, CEO of CBH Bank awarded the medals.
In the final of the -81kg category Abylaikhan ZHUBANAZAR produced a lightning fast foot sweep for yuko to win.
The medals were awarded by IOC Member, Mr Mustapha BERRAF.
Many of the Swiss team produced strong performances throughout this second day. Topped off by Aurelien BONFERRONI winning a bronze medal for the home nation.
The final day awaits!