JUDO: Despite only standing at 155cm and weighing in at 50kg, Bryan Jolly is ready to fight for a medal at the second summer Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China.

The Victorian young-gun who, in his recent bouts has shown skill beyond his years, will compete in the -55kg class at the Longjiang Gymnasium on Day 1 of competition.

“I want to go well,” Jolly said. “I want to win a few fights and win a medal.”

There are only six athletes in Jolly’s category so he has a good chance of doing just that.

“If I win the match I advance straight through to the semis, however if I lose I compete in a repechage for a chance at a bronze medal.”

Despite the small number of competitors, both the world number one and world number two in Jolly’s category will compete making it a very strong competition.

In his first match, Jolly comes up against Verstraeten of Belgium, who will not be easy to beat.

“He is quite handy,” Jolly said. “He placed at the recent World Titles, beating the Japanese and winning a bronze medal.”

“He also medalled in Berlin two weeks ago.”

Jolly sees the YOG as an important stepping stone in his Judoka career and is aiming to represent Australia at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. His ambition is to be an Olympic gold medallist.

He has great support, training with five time Olympian Maria Pekli and Olympic bronze medallist Ivo Dos Santos.

The Victorian teenager finished 9th at the 2013 Cadet World Championships and won two gold medals at the 2014 Oceania Championships.

He has come a long way since being bullied on the bus, the main reason he first started in the sport of Judo.

“I learnt to fight through judo. And I am no longer bullied on the bus,” Jolly said with a smile.

The second summer Youth Olympic Games commences tonight in Nanjing, China, with the Opening Ceremony commencing at 8pm local time. Judo will take place on days 1-5 at the Longjiang Gymnasium.

Frances Cordaro
olympics.com.au
@AUSOlympicTeam