Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Mr Yermek Kosherbayev delivered a warm and proud welcome, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone on the opening of the international tournament, the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam. The grand slam is regarded as one of the most prestigious judo competitions in the world. About 400 athletes from 44 countries will take part in this competition."
"Judo is a sport that is promoted in our actively country. More than 150,000 people practise it regularly. Fans also show a strong interest in this sport and follow the performances of our athletes closely, such as that of Yeldos Smetov, our Olympic champion from Paris last summer.
Hosting such a large-scale event in our country reflects the high level of trust that the International Judo Federation places in Kazakhstan. Moreover, it is an excellent opportunity for our athletes to strengthen their positions on the global stage. In this regard, I express my sincere gratitude to the Akimat of Astana City and the leadership of the national federation for their contribution to the high level organisation of today’s competition.
I wish that the podium is graced by the most deserving athletes, those who possess both skill and good fortune. I wish success to all! Thank you.”
President of the Kazakhstan Judo Federation Mr Kuanyshbek Yessekeyev was next to address those gathered, “Dear athletes and esteemed guests,
our people say, 'A hero is born among the people.' Today, Kazakh judoka are making our country known to the world through their hard work. Every step you take brings pride to our nation.
We are delighted to welcome you all to the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam judo tournament. We wish all participants good luck and victories. It is also a great honour for Astana to host the grand slam tournament for the third time. We are welcoming around 2,000 guests, including more than 500 athletes and coaches.
We express our sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Akimat of Astana and the Samruk-Kazyna Sports Fund for their support organising this event. We wish you all unforgettable moments. May judo continue to flourish across the world."
IJF President Mr Marius Vizer closed the speeches part of the opening ceremony, “Distinguished Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dear spectators and judo family members, firstly congratulations on the occasion of Victory Day. I express my appreciation for the Olympic Committee, the governement and the federation. This is a country of energy, digitalisation and sport as well. By investing in sport, you invest in the bringing of peace to the world. Judo is a sport of solidarity. This is a great event that leads to the 2027 World Championships which will be here in Kazakhstan. Have a good judo event and a great celebartion afterwards. I declare the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam open!”
The Kazakh and IJF anthems then rang out in the arena before a musical performance on stage closed the ceremony. The final block was then ready to entertain and excite not only the fans on site but those tuned in around the world, watching on Judo TV.
