Monday 27 FEb

Fiji Judokas, Sisilia Rasokisoki and Josataki Naulu have been competing in International Judo Federation (IJF) events in Europe during the month of February as a build-up and preparation for the Olympic Games qualification event that will be held in April in Cairns, Australia.....

With financial support from the IOC the Fiji duo have been fortunate in having the opportunity of participating in several World Cup and Grand Prix events in Europe.

The duo competed in events last weekend 25-26 February with excitement by Sisi winning her first round at the EJU World Cup in Poland beating Natalie Powell of Great Britain. She bowed out in the 2nd round to Vera Moskalyuk of Russia who came 3rd overall.

Jostaki competed in the EJU World Cup in Prague, Czech Republic against a tough opponent from Iran. 

The week before, 18-19 Febraury Josateki competed in the IJF Grand Prix event in Duesseldorf Germany.  He had a tought draw against Loic Pietri of France who went on to win the bronze medal.

Febraury 11-12 saw Josateki travelling to Austria to the EJU World Cup where he gallantly fought against Tuvshinjargal Fan of Mongolia.  Gan went on to be placed 5th overall. 

Earlier in the month both Sisi and Jo competed in the IJF Grand Slam in Paris where Josateki won his first fight against Baye Diawara of Senegal and then fought against the 5th world ranked French judoka Axel Clerget.  Sisi  was up against Akari Ogata, Japan's world number one.

Sisi and Josateki have had the opportunity of attending training camps at some of the events where they have been able to fight and train with top judokas from around the world.

Competition has been very tough however both Sisi and Josateki have gained valuable experience at the highest level and have increased their IJF ranking with their first round wins.  Although a little disappointed with their results both athletes are working hard towards their goals of improving skills to enable them to win at the forthcoming Oceania Qualification Championships in April.

Photos:

Athletes Josateki Naulu and Sisilia Rasokisoki