More than 550 judoka representing 35 nations are set to gather in Berlin for the upcoming Junior European Cup, marking a crucial event leading up to the highly anticipated 2024 Junior European Championships in Tallinn.
Among the participants are four top-ranked junior contenders, two hailing from Europe and the remaining two from overseas. Standing out among the overseas competitors is John Jr MESSE A BESSONG from Canada, who has already secured remarkable achievements this year. With a bronze medal in Sarajevo and a gold medal in the +100kg category in Podgorica, Messe A Bessong continued his winning streak by triumphing in the Pan American Oceanian Junior Championships in Rio de Janeiro. Moreover, he showcased his talent by clinching a bronze medal in the senior category in Brazil, reaffirming his intentions to compete in LA2028 following the Paris 2024 Games. Eager to further refine his skills, the talented Canadian judoka has returned to Europe to capitalize on the fierce competition and augment his capabilities ahead of the upcoming Junior World Championships later this year.
Also making waves is Talgat ORYNBASSAR from Kazakhstan, currently leading the -60kg category. With a bronze medal at the 2023 Junior World Championships already under his belt, Orynbassar is no stranger to the demanding journey towards success. This year, he has built upon his prior achievements with impressive victories in Anadia and Poznan, adding a bronze medal in Almaty as well.
With these rising stars converging in Berlin, anticipation runs high as they strive to solidify their positions among the elite and lay the foundation for their future careers in judo. The Junior European Cup offers an opportune moment for these talented judoka to test themselves against formidable opponents, hone their skills, and further cement their determination to excel on the international stage.