En route to Los Angeles. Natacha Razafindrakalo, Laura Rasoanaivo, Angelo Hyacinthe, and Rayan Ravelojaona are heading to Kosovo to participate in a high-level training camp. This three-month intensive program is expected to help these Malagasy judokas elevate their performance.
According to the Malagasy Judo Federation, this initiative aims to prepare for the 2027 African Championships in Algeria and a series of European competitions. The ultimate goal is to accumulate maximum points in the international rankings to secure qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
For these athletes, this immersion in a nation renowned for its judo quality is the culmination of years of dedication. “Today, I am flying off for a three-month internship in Kosovo to align myself with the level of true international athletes. A childhood dream is coming true after all the sacrifices made over these years,” says Rayan Ravelojaona.
Natacha Razafindrakalo shares the same emotion, fully aware of the significance of this opportunity. “I leave with a heart full of gratitude, but also with a commitment to honor this trust through my work, my behavior, and my performance,” emphasizes the young judoka from Antsirabe. She describes it as a “new stage” and a “new responsibility,” reminding everyone that “reaching this level has never been the result of a single effort.”
This overseas training is the result of a strategic collaboration between several sports authorities. The Malagasy Judo Federation (FMJ) wishes to acknowledge the involvement of Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation (IJF), Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, President of the African Judo Union (UAJ), and the hospitality of the Kosovo Judo Federation, which provides this privileged working environment for the Malagasy judokas.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-07 11:08:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/sport-de-combat-quatre-judokas-beneficient-de-trois-mois-de-stage-au-kosovo/