In Tashkent in the Spring, Jinesinuer Ayiman claimed an important victory when she beat world and Olympic medallist Razy Hershko (ISR) for a place on her first World Judo Tour podium; it was a moment which made the rest of the heavyweights sit up and take notice. In April, at the Asian Championships in Bangkok, she took gold, beating Mao Arai (JPN) along the way. It seems Ayiman has made her intentions clear!
“Right at the beginning, I didn’t know what judo was, but my brother was training in judo and I was doing boxing. I learned about it from him when I was about 12 and so that was the beginning of my judo life. Although I didn’t understand it, I saw many other athletes enjoying judo and so I tried to join in. Straight away I felt happy and comfortable. I competed really early and had good results and so my confidence grew. As I became more confident I also loved judo more, understood it more and so that cycle continued.
I watch videos of China’s four previous Olympic champions in the heavyweight women’s category; I respect them very much. Some of them are still coaching or working in Province sports organisations and so we see them around. I want to learn more from them and become a new Olympic champion, following their amazing achievements."
"I didn’t have any idea about life goals before judo and so it has shaped my life completely. I have goals and a lifestyle now that lead me towards self-improvement. Maybe I enjoy the daily training and competitions so much because I have these goals. I don’t feel this life is a sacrifice because it gives me great opportunities. I am looking forward to travelling the world more with judo.”
Not everything in judo goes in a straight line. For all athletes there are obstacles to overcome and for Ayiman it has been no different.
“The most important person in my judo life has been my grandfather. Other family members didn’t want me to be a judoka or an athlete in any sport but he agreed with my my choices and supported me. He was an old school man with strong beliefs, understanding the benefits of this physical life and the discipline, the team ideals. I thank him for this support. He has passed away now but his support is always with me.”
Jinesinuer Ayiamn’s goals are set, her understanding of the sport and what is needed to reach the top is in place and so now she must focus on what is right in front of her.
“Now the first and most important thing is to get good results towards the start of Olympic qualification. There are judoka registered for the Qingdao Grand Prix who have beaten me before and so the goal is to beat them, either now or in the coming events. Maybe at home, I have an advantage and can achieve that. I really want to hear the national anthem of China play for my category. It would be an emotional moment.
I must thank the national team because they give me a lot of support in my career and I am proud to be a judoka representing my home town and also China.”
Jinesinuer Ayiman is ranked 12th in the world, a great start for the youngster. She is ready to take on the next phase of her career, no matter what it brings.