Celebration looks different for everyone. For some it’s a simple happy end to a good day of judo. For other’s it’s a career-affirming victory, the evidence that they were right and bet on themselves correctly.

It can be a moment of quiet internal relief or a very public demand for applause. It’s individual. It’s earned. It’s more than acceptable when we consider the work undertaken to achieve on the world stage.

The first World Judo Tour medal.

The agreement that the world gold medal wasn’t bought with luck. Gratitude for the privilege of doing what they love.

The joy at confirming they’re still here, still at the top and still amassing impressive results.

Whatever the style of celebration, it’s honest and it’s been paid for, more than paid for, in time, effort, sacrifice and excellence.

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