On November 11 and 12, 2011, the French 1st Division Judo Championships took place at the Palais des Sports in Lievin.
Nice was represented by athletes from its two leading judo clubs, Olympique Judo Nice and Nice Judo.
Two judokas from Olympique Judo Nice particularly stood out and agreed to give us this exclusive interview.
We start with Jonathan Allardon, a medalist at the French 1st Division Championships in the under 73 kg category (on the left, 3rd place)
Nice Premium: What are your impressions following this day during which you earned a third place at the French 1st Division Judo Championships held in Lievin this weekend?
Jonathan Allardon: It was an emotional day, it was my first medal at the French 1st Division Championships, and I hope there will be many more.
Do you think your young age is a handicap?
I don’t think my young age is a handicap. Only hard work pays off.
NP: What are your medium-term sports goals?
JA: It’s the year of the games… I’ve already started competing internationally in important tournaments. Now I need to secure my place among the world’s best.
NP: How have you integrated into the team?
JA: I integrated well, I had no trouble, I was warmly welcomed, it’s hard not to fit into such a friendly group, like my buddy Sofiane, for example (laughs)
NP: What are your next sports objectives?
JA: My next goals are to continue my momentum, establish myself internationally while not forgetting the race for a starting spot for the London Olympic Games.
Then Sofiane Milous, French champion in the under 60 kg category after his European title
NP: What are your impressions following this day?
Sofiane Milous: I am happy with this result. It was a tough day, I faced the best French opponents in my category.
NP: What are your short-term goals?
SM: To have a great season, continue training and improving to become the best in the world.
NP: What is your next competition?
SM: The Amsterdam Grand Prix, next weekend.
NP: What is the daily life of a top-level athlete like?
SM: It’s probably different for everyone, but for me, it’s metro, judo, sleep… (laughs)
NP: What do you think of the Alpes-Maritimes department?
SM: Honestly, I wasn’t familiar with the Nice region before; it’s a charming department.
NP: How would you respond to those who might call you a “mercenary”?
SM: I don’t think this question would be asked to a footballer, but I’ll answer it anyway. When I say I’m attached to a club, it’s mainly about the human relationships I’ve been able to build with the club members, coaches, and my buddies, especially Jonathan (laughs)
NP: Good luck and all the best…
SM: Luck has no place in judo, I leave it for lottery players…it’s mostly about work, sweat, and determination.
Nathalie AUDIN
