Tiblisi World Cup 2009, Georgia

Thursday 26 February 2009

Two fighters of the Budokwai were in action for Great Britain at the 2009 Tiblisi World Cup in Georgia. Jonathon Purssey was selected at u90kg and Alex Farbon at the u73kg weight class.

It is considered one of the hardest tournaments in the world and held in the raw environment of the former soviet state in front of 6000-8000 Georgian patriots. The atmosphere is incredible and you cannot here yourself think if there is a Georgian fighting at the same time. The Japanese national team were in attendance and it was fascinating to see the clash of styles between the Traditional Japanese style and the raw power of the Georgian wrestlers. The crowd, although partizan, were extremely knowledgeable and would applaud even if the victor was Russian.

Alex defeated the Swiss No1 in his first fight but lost out to a talented Armenian- who was unfortunate not to win the Bronze medal after throwing the Japanese for Wa-zari and Yuko.

Jonathon also lost to an Armenian after a gruelling 5minute contest. He was caught early in the contest and could not get the score back despite dominating the remainder of the contest. It was great experience for both fighters as they prepare for Paris Tournament or as it is now renamed the Paris Grand Slam.

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