Tashkent was alive with excitement as the new Diyora Keldiyorova Dojo was inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of judo in Uzbekistan. The event was graced by notable figures including IJF President Mr. Marius Vizer, Her Excellency Mrs. Shahnoza Mirziyoyeva, First Vice President of the Uzbekistan Paralympic Committee, Dr. Adkham Ikramov, the Minister of Sports of Uzbekistan, and Mr. Otabek Umarov, First Vice President of the NOC of Uzbekistan.
Celebrating judo and community spirit
The opening ceremony highlighted the commitment to fostering judo values as part of the national sports strategy aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports. During the event, the importance of mental and physical health was emphasized, with a statement declaring,
“Healthy people, both mentally and physically, are the foundation of a strong nation.”
As the festivities continued at the Yunosobod arena, the atmosphere was charged with energy. In the -63kg category, Japan’s YAMAGUCHI Kirari showcased an outstanding performance, executing a flawless turnover that allowed her to hold down Inbal SHEMESH. Her impressive skills earned her the gold medal, presented by IJF Guest Professor Ion ROXIN. Yamaguchi expressed her gratitude, stating,
“When fighting the final here in Uzbekistan, even though I was representing Japan, I felt like I was being cheered on so much! It made it very easy for me to fight.”
Local talent shines in Tashkent
In the -73kg category, Karen GALSTIAN delivered a remarkable performance, claiming the top position in Tashkent and receiving his medal from IJF General Treasurer Mr. Naser AL TAMIMI. The -70kg match saw Uzbekistan’s Khurshida RAZZOKBERDIEVA facing Japan’s MAEDA Rin, who skillfully countered the local favorite, securing gold and receiving her medal from Uzbekistan Judo Federation President Mr. Azizjon KAMILOV.
Timur ARBUZOV made waves in the -81kg category, demonstrating his prowess with a clinical strangle against Uzbekistan’s Arslonbek TOJIEV to win gold. The medal was awarded by Uzbekistan NOC Secretary General, Mr. Oybek KASIMOV. The event concluded with the local crowd celebrating the impressive performances of their athletes, who collectively earned multiple medals.
The thrilling day of judo promises even more excitement as the heavyweight matches are set to take center stage tomorrow.