Germany’s Medal Hope at the IBSA Judo World Championships in Astana
The Kazakh capital, Astana, is set to host the best visually impaired judokas in the world, with Germany bringing a strong team led by their youngest medal hopeful, Isabell Thal.
The German Team
- -60 kg: Ramona Brussig
- -52 kg:
isabelle thal
– World No. 1 and silver medallist at the World Cup in Tbilisi. - -81 kg: Bela Heinze & Samuel van Melle – U21 athletes seeking international experience.
- -95 kg: Daniel Goral – Bronze medallist in Tbilisi.
The team is guided by trainers Carmen Bruckmann, Matthias Krieger, and Jannis Hill, with medical care provided by Dr. Michael Hammer.
Medal Hopes and Young Talent
Germany’s medal hopes rest heavily on Thal’s shoulders. The 21-year-old has been impressive in the -52 kg category, currently ranked No. 1 in the world. Goral too, who won bronze in the -95 kg class in Tbilisi, is part of the favourites group.
While Bela Heinze and Samuel van Melle are unlikely to medal, their participation in Astana is invaluable for their growth and international experience.
Lennart Sass – Out but Not Forgotten
Absent from this year’s team is Lennart Sass, currently rehabilitating after a cruciate ligament rupture.
The Call of Experience
“The German team looks at the upcoming competitions with anticipation and motivation. They hope to achieve strong results and valuable international experiences in a hospitable host country.”
Did you know?
Kazakhstan’s hospitality is renowned worldwide, with visitors often praising the nation’s friendliness and warmth.
‘usoF2 More Information
The German team is eager to make its mark at the IBSA Judo World Championships in Kazakhstan. With Thal leading the charge and a talented squad with high aspirations, the stage is set for an exciting showdown.
Stay tuned for more updates on the team’s progress in Astana. Comment below with your predictions for Germany’s performances!