Paraense athlete is the Brazilian vice-champion in judo and secures a spot for the Sub-13 Pan American in Lima, Peru
With the support of the Government of Pará, through the State Secretariat of Sports and Leisure (Seel), the young paraense judoka Laura de Oliveira, 12 years old, orange belt, shone on the mat and won the vice-championship at the Brazilian Judo Championship Sub-13, securing her qualification for the Sub-13 Youth Pan American Championship, which will be held in Lima, Peru, on December 5 and 6.
The Brazilian Judo Championship took place in João Pessoa (PB), from October 2 to 5, gathering more than 1,200 athletes from the sub-13 and sub-15 categories, representing the 26 Brazilian states and the Federal District. The competition was held at the Ronaldão Gymnasium and organized by the Brazilian Judo Confederation (CBJ).
Pará had a delegation of 30 athletes, divided between the two categories.
The State Secretary of Sports and Leisure, Cássio Andrade, highlighted the performance of the athletes from Pará and the importance of Laura's achievement.
"It is a great joy to see our athletes representing Pará with such determination and talent in national competitions. Laura's achievement and qualification for the Pan American show the strength of paraense sports and the result of the investments that the State Government has been making to encourage young talents. Through Seel, we remain committed to supporting our athletes, strengthening the sports and taking the name of Pará further and further," said the secretary.
Emotional about the result, Laura de Oliveira, vice-champion in the Sub-13 -60 kg female category, spoke about the feeling of stepping onto the podium.
"I am very happy with this achievement. It was a very difficult competition, with strong opponents, but I managed to put into practice everything I have been training. Being the Brazilian vice-champion is a huge pride for me, for my team, and for my State. I thank the Government of Pará and Seel for all the support and encouragement. This medal represents all the effort, dedication, and love I have for judo," highlighted the athlete.
The athlete's father, Josivaldo de Oliveira, also expressed his emotion in following his daughter's journey.
"It is a great emotion to accompany Laura in each competition. Seeing all her effort, dedication, and now another achievement representing our State is an immense pride. We closely follow how dedicated she is to training, giving up a lot to be here. Each of her victories is a joy for the whole family and a reason for pride for Pará," said the athlete's father.
