Val-d’Oise Judo Prodigy Claims National Title After Strategic Shift
VILLEBON, France – Mamadou Bagayoko, representing Jc villiers-le-Bel in Val-d’Oise, overcame past disappointments to seize the French Junior Judo Championship title in the under-100 kg category. Bagayoko’s victory follows a pivotal decision to prioritize training, marking a turning point in his burgeoning career.
Strategic Move Pays Off
Bagayoko’s coach, Frédéric Feuillet, revealed the athlete’s commitment to his judo aspirations. “He transitioned from general schooling to a technical school, allowing more time for training,” Feuillet explained. This shift addressed previous frustrations, including a 5th place finish at the 2023 Cadet Championships and an early exit from the 2024 Junior Championships.
Overcoming Doubts, Dominating Opponents
Despite a mixed start to the season, including a 3rd place finish at the Super Excellence tournament in Aix-en-Provence, Bagayoko, ranked No. 2 nationally, quickly silenced any doubts at the national championships. He decisively defeated Liloo Morand-Rassinoux (Usj 86) with an ippon via ashi-guruma and Ponove Falevalu (Chartres) by scoring two waza-ari in counter-attacks.
Revenge and Victory
“I then took my revenge on Steeve Andrieu, the no. 7 seed, who eliminated me last year,” Bagayoko said. “I had studied him well, and it was through good control of the kumi kata that I managed to score waza-ari.”
Future Prospects
Bagayoko’s national title positions him as a promising contender for future international competitions and potentially the french national team.
French Junior Judo Team Gains New Talent: Beauvais Athletes to compete in Italy
Two judokas from Beauvais, France, have earned spots on the French national junior team after remarkable performances at the recent national championships. This marks a significant achievement for the athletes, who will now represent France at an international tournament in Italy.
Battu’s Silver Secures National Team Spot
Ussi Battu secured a silver medal in his weight class, earning his first-ever selection to the French national team. Battu’s path to the final included a victory by ippon against the No. 3-ranked Oliver siewa Djikam. He ultimately fell to Gaya Sonntag, who had previously defeated the top-ranked Maxence Berthélémy.
“Thanks to this great result, I was selected for the first time in the French team. I will compete in a tournament in Italy where I will be accompanied by emma Feuillet-Nguimgo,” Battu said.
Feuillet Takes Bronze, Joins teammate
Emma Feuillet-Nguimgo also secured her place on the national team with a third-place finish in the -78 kg category.
According to frédéric feuillet, Emma is a regular on international podiums. National coaches wanted to see her compete at the French Junior Championships rather than sending her to the Cadet European Cup in Teplice. She met expectations by defeating Nyla Durand, Hinanui tui, Honorine Bourdon, Manon Cloteaux and Yvana Trecy Kamga Ngangoum during the tournament.
Training Location
val-d’Oise Judo Prodigy & French Junior Judo team – Q&A
The location is in Villiers-le-Bel.
The success of these young judokas highlights the importance of dedication and strategic planning in achieving athletic excellence. Support these athletes as they continue their journey!
