European Championships 2023

Friday April 28th, day 3 of the competition

In the morning 6 belgian competitors had to perform. Rahim was up in the category sparring -57kg, in his first European Championship, against an experienced 4th degree from Italy. Rahim was not impressed, fought well, moved well and made points, but the Italian won the bout due to his experience. Anyhow this was very promising for the future.

In the -63kg Vladimior won his first bout, with first point, against Ukraine. In his second bout against Slovenia however he was a bit impressed. In that same category Omar was up against Hungary. We know Omar can do better, we did not see the Omar we all know…. so hopefully he can focus now for teamsparring on Saturday.

Jérémie was up against Italy in the -78kg. Also Jérémie can do better….. he lost this first bout.

Rune, on his second EC, faced Finland. He fought like a Viking and did very well, but lost control in the last 30 seconds, and the Finnish competitor was able to turn the fight, unfortunately. The last one of the morning was Driss, also on his first EC. He faced Norway in the -85kg. He did well, but was a bit impressed and had problems with the yop chagi of his adversaire. Also Driss has the time to grow into next championships.

In the afternoon Hans and Wim were up in the male power breaking. For Wim it was the first time he competed in this discipline on this level. Hans however managed to break all boards in both ab choomok chirugi and yopcha chirugi. Unfortunately some countries did even better, so it was not enough to go through.

At 18.00 the yearly AETF Congress Meeting is taking place for the delegates of all countries present.