The elite athletes of the Great Island are rubbing shoulders with high-level judokas in their quest for Olympic qualification. Three female judokas are representing the country at the World Championships, which are taking place from October 4 to 10 in the city of Baku, Azerbaijan.
Natacha Emiliame Razafindrakalo, the 23-year-old multiple national champion from Family Judo Antsirabe, will kick off the competition on Sunday in the -48 kg category, which features 38 competitors. Ranked 61st in the world, Natacha won gold at the Johannesburg Open in June and the Pretoria Open in April 2025, and finished seventh at the African Championships in April.
Aina Laura Rasoanaivo Razafy, the 22-year-old Paris Olympian from JC Saint Michel, will step onto the tatami on October 8 in the -70 kg category. Ranked 22nd globally, Laura secured a silver medal at the Johannesburg Open in June and bronze at the African Championships in April.
Finally, 31-year-old Hajanirina Zo Andriambolona, also from JC Saint Michel, will conclude the Malagasy participation on October 9 in the -78 kg category. Ranked 54th in the world, Zo finished 5th at the last continental summit. She won gold at the Dakar Open in March and silver at the Abidjan Open in 2025. This participation in high-level competition will allow them to gain experience and improve their respective world rankings.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-03 05:38:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/judo-mondial-trois-combattantes-en.html