Youngster Judoka Mariya Takahashi managed to take another gold for the Philippines after defeating Thai veteran Surattana Thongsri at the women’s 70kg title in the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
With an outstanding mastery on the said combative sport, Takahashi unleashed her power by way of ippon in 48 seconds against Thongsri, shattering the five-time gold medal record of the Thai national on the biennial meet.
Takahashi traced the path of 21-year-old fellow Pinay Judoka Kiyomi Watanabe who dominated the women’s 63kg division on August 26.
The sweet victory of the 16-year-old Filipina-Japanese made it sweeter as she also successfully owned the spot on her debut fight in the SEA Games and expressed honor to represent team Philippines.
Meanwhile, Philippine Judo Officials expressed their confidence and trust to Takahashi that she will secure the country’s Judo gold in the 2019 biennial event in the Philippines. | Win Peñano – PTV
With contributions from Meg Siozon – PTV Sports
