Georgian national judo team, triumphant of European Championship, returned in Tbilisi this morning. About a hundred supporters gathered at the airport. Besides family members, current and veteran athletes and coaches officials of Judo Federation and Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs also were at the airport.

President of Judo Federation Davit Kevkhishvili and head coach Irakli Uznadze took the main prize, trophy, out in the airport hall.

“I am very happy. Georgia has the strongest team and they have proved this many times. The team wrestled truly exemplary at the European Championship and got a brilliant result. I want to thank judokas and coaches for such devoted work” – Davit Kevkhishvili told to “World Sport”.

“I congratulate everyone this success. We are delighted that the Georgian team was formed as a stable team. This is recognized by everyone and the results also proves this. Four judoka of nine wrestled in final. This is really a good result. If not one-two sad moments, which is connected to a referee, the result should have been better” – said Irakli Uznadze to “World Sport”.

Head coach of Georgian judo team also brought an award from Montpellier. 41-year-old specialist was named as the best coach of the last season. Of course, we also asked him comment on this recognition.

“I heard about this award officially when I arrived in France. Meanwhile I heard unofficial that I was one of the major candidates”, - said Uznadze.

Davit Kevkhishvili, president of Georgian Judo Federation, arrived in Montpellier in the last days and as he said got great pleasure.

“Georgian team became European champion for the third time in a row. This is an excellent result and I would like to thank each member of the team once again” – said Kevkhishvili.

Current European champions Avtandil Chrikishvili (81kg) and Varlam Liparteliani (90kg) accompanied head coach of the team and Federation president and they had another award in their hands, which was taken in the nomination for the best team 2013.

“Such strong team, as ours does not exist. I am glad that I am a member of this great team. Of course, I am  also satisfied with my participation – I have become a champion” – said Avtandil Chrikishvili.

Varlam Liparteliani also drew attention to the team’s victory and added that he was very happy because won gold medal at both important competitions.

And finally, the comment of Tamaz Tevzadze, assistant of minister of Sports and Youth Affairs:

“Georgian judo gained the next great victory. Our team became European champion for the third time in a row. This titles do not come by accident. This is a merit of greatest work and commitment and I want to thank everyone who has contributed in this success. I am proud of these guys and I’m happy that I watched their excellent participation live. Coming of our rugby players to the judo hall was very pleasant. Unfortunately, they were unable to attend the team’s competition due to their Sunday match”.

Judo Federation and Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs will hold the final press conference in these days. 

Otar Maglakelidze