Israeli Judoka Ella Bar Lev Wins Cadet World Championship, Eyes Olympic Gold

Ella Bar Lev, a 16-year-old Israeli judoka from Kibbutz Ein HaHoresh, made history by becoming the first Israeli to win the Cadet World Judo Championship. Bar Lev, who will turn 17 next month, shared in an exclusive interview her journey from gymnastics to judo, inspired initially by her younger brother's involvement in the sport. She described judo as a refuge during her childhood and expressed immense pride and satisfaction after winning the gold medal in South America.

Reflecting on her victory, Bar Lev recounted the emotional moment she realized she had won while speaking to her mother early in the morning Israel time. She highlighted the intense final match against a Belgian opponent, emphasizing her aggressive style and determination to never give up regardless of the match length or difficulty. Bar Lev credited her mental preparation and support from her coaches and psychologist for her success, noting that she set a goal at the start of the year to become world champion.

Bar Lev also discussed the challenges she faced in the past year, including a tough period of competitions with less success, and how she maintained her self-belief independent of medals. She admires Olympic medalist Yarden Gerbi as her role model and aspires to emulate her achievements. Bar Lev trains alongside senior Israeli judokas, including Tamar Malka, who currently leads the 48 kg weight category, and values the competitive yet supportive environment.

Balancing school and professional judo, Bar Lev credits the sport for providing her with a supportive community and strength during difficult social times in school. She described her coaches as second mothers and praised their constant support, especially during the Ecuador championship. Looking ahead, Bar Lev’s ultimate dream is to compete in the Olympic Games and become an Olympic champion, a goal she pursues with dedication and passion.

Summary: Israeli judoka Ella Bar Lev won the Cadet World Judo Championship, becoming the first Israeli to do so. At 16, she aims to become an Olympic champion and credits her coaches, family, and mental resilience for her success. She trains with senior national athletes and balances her sport with school, viewing judo as a vital support system.

Points: - Ella Bar Lev won the Cadet World Judo Championship, a first for Israel. - She aims to become an Olympic champion and is training for the 2028 Games. - Bar Lev credits mental preparation and her coaches for her success. - She admires Olympic medalist Yarden Gerbi as her role model. - Judo helped her overcome social challenges and provided a supportive community. - She competes in the 48 kg weight category alongside senior Israeli judokas.

Topic: sports israel_relevant: true Entities: {"people":["Ella Bar Lev","Yarden Gerbi","Tamar Malka","Inbar Lanir","Raz Hershko","Omri Kanyon"],"organizations":["IJF"],"places":["Israel","Ein HaHoresh","South America","Ecuador","Japan","Los Angeles"]}