Michel Augusto and Jonathan Yang arrived as the top two seeds and finished the day sharing the final of the lightest of the men’s categories. It had been a tough day for many who had expected more, none of them able to leapfrog the highest ranked among them to reach the gold medal contest.

FInal: Michel Augusto (BRA) vs Jonathan Yang (USA)

This final was marked by a fierce yumi-kata battle, each judoka knowing all too well that their tokui-waza depended on having the correct grip. Augusto, the number one seed, was undoubtedly the stronger of the two in this regard and used his position well to place a yuko on the board.

Augusto (BRA) attacks.

The score against him seemed to light a fire in Jonathan Yang and he came forward more and more, putting great pressure on the Brazilian; Augusto began to collect penalties but it was too late for the young American. Michel Augusto confirmed his rank taking the gold medal and some very important Olympic qualification points.

Michel Augusto (BRA).

After the final Michel Augusto said, “Winning my first grand prix gold medal brings huge emotion. I had four tough fights today but I managed them well and am really satisfied with my performance. It’s great fighting close to home in South America, without the long flights to Europe or Asia. I always love the energy and support in Lima."

Bronze medal contest: Andrea Carlino (ITA) vs Asier Murillo Martinez de Lizarrondo (ESP)

No sooner than the contest began, the first attack came, scored ippon and ended the suspense. Carlino performed a perfectly timed ashi-waza, catching the Spanish judoka and offering no possibility for redemption.

Andrea Carlino (ITA) wins in emphatic style.

Bronze medal contest: Diego Ismael (BRA) vs Christopher Velazco (USA)

This was an all-action contest between two Pan-American athletes who have crossed paths many times before. It was close from the beginning but the American looked to be creating more pressure than his opponent and eventually this paid dividends. A hold-down in the last minute of normal time secured the ippon he needed to earn his first World Judo Tour medal.

Christopher Velazco (USA) wins bronze.
Medals, cheques and flowers presented by IJF Education & Coaching Director Mr Mohammed Meridja and Chief Executive Officer of USA Judo Ms Corinne Shigemoto.
The -60 kg podium.
See also