Judo: Kazakhstan Kicks Off Strong at the Astana Tournament
The World Judo Tour has returned to Astana for the "Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam 2026" tournament.
The arena was filled with spectators ready for an exciting and action-packed day of judo.
Notable guests included the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and the President of the International Judo Federation, Marius Vizer.
In the final of the under 60 kg category, Kazakhstan's Talgat Orynbasar faced Mongolian judoka Sukhbat Byambasuren, who claimed his first Grand Slam gold medal today.
The medal was presented by the CEO of the National Welfare Fund "Samruk-Kazyna", Nurlan Jakupov.
In the final of the under 48 kg category, Amber Gershes competed against Narantsatsag Ganbaatar, and a single yuko was enough for Gershes to secure her first Grand Slam gold medal.
The awards were presented by the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan, Yerbol Myrzabosynov.
In the final of the under 52 kg category, Blandine Pon faced Khorldoidi Bishrelt and managed to earn a yuko to win the gold medal.
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The gold was presented by the General Treasurer of the International Judo Federation, Nasser Al Tamimi.
The final of the under 66 kg category was truly thrilling: Saigid Kerimov went up against Abdurakhim Nutfullaev.
The Uzbek judoka used an unusual kata-guruma technique to earn the only yuko and take home the gold.
The medal was presented by the CEO of Harvest Group, Almaz Alsenov.
In the final of the under 57 kg category, a complete French showdown occurred: Faiza Mokdar faced Chloe Devictor.
Mokdar controlled the match entirely, transitioning to hold after an early score, leaving her opponent with no chance, and secured the gold.
The gold medal was presented by the Chairman of the Board and CEO of MET Group, Benjamin Lakatosh.
The Kazakh team provided the audience with many bright moments, reaffirming the stability of Kazakh judo on the world stage. The hosts concluded the first day with two medals.
Join us tomorrow as representatives from the middle weight categories take to the tatami!
