IJF aims to expand Kata World Championships after Lisbon staging
International Judo Federation (IJF) is hoping to expand its kata events after this year’s World Championships were held in Lisbon.
Two days of competition were held in Portugal’s capital, in various kata categories.
1It is a very beautiful judo event here in Lisbon,” said Franco Capelletti, the chairman of the IJF Kata Commission.
“The technical level of all participants is great.
“We have more than 100 pairs taking part, which is a great result for our event.
“We are working hard together to make kata events more exciting for the audience and we are hoping to see even more participants in the future.”
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Mohamed Meridja, the IJF education and coaching director, presented the Portuguese Judo Federation (PJF), President Jorge Oliveira Fernandes, with the governing body’s golden plaque.
Meridja said the event had been held to a “high level”.
“The Portuguese Judo Federation ensured that everything was very smooth, starting from the competition venue to the logistics of the event,” he said.
“They are ready to host even bigger international events and we are very thankful to the President of PJF, Mr Fernandes.”
Joao Baptista won silver for the host nation in the junior katame-no-kata category.
“It is my first medal at a major judo event and I am very happy,” he said.
“I am especially happy to be winning this medal at home.
“Thanks to all my friends, coaches and family who supported me this whole time.”