#26: Two ITL Athletes Claim Silver And Bronze In Solidarity Games
More medals were claimed in Malta’s name. This time, in the 2nd Solidarity Centre Games, held in Montargis, France (G1).
The tournament took place on the weekend of the 1st and 2nd of July 2023. In it, were a host of hardened athletes from all four corners of the globe.
Representing Malta, were two ITL athletes Michela Scerri and Alycia Cassar; both led by National coach Ditmir Vodinaj (also ITL).
Michela Scerri
Michela was the first to fight, having encountered French athlete Jade Mustara in the Quarter Final of the women’s -48kg category (height-adjusted). The fight got off to a rocky start with Michela losing the first round. However, she was quick to capitalize with a 4-3 and an impressive 9-1 win in the second and third rounds.
Michela advanced to the semi-final, where she fought against Lena Lehmann (FRA). It was a quick win for the Maltese, who won the first and second rounds with scores of 10-0 and 8-3.
In the final, Michela then faced French champion Lilu Gamel. The Maltese lost the first round. However, she got the better of Gamel in the second. It was all to play for in the third round, and the two fought tooth and nail for gold. But in the end, the French athlete achieved the win.
Michela left the tournament with a well-earned silver medal wrapped around her neck.
Alycia Cassar
Alycia was the next to fight. Immediately, she drew French national champion Sane Seyni in the semi-final round. It was an intense encounter, featuring flurries of headshots and high-powered kicks that spanned over three rounds.
Alycia lost the first round but was quick to equalize with a second-round win. At the business end, Aly led the score all the way till the end of the third round, where she conceded a headshot in the dying moments. The final round ended 6-9 against the Maltese. A result that led Aly to a third-place finish in her respective set.
The best moments of Aly’s fight were filmed by Mundotaekwondo, and can be viewed by clicking here.
The team congratulates both athletes and coach Ditmir on their success in foreign shores. We would also like to thank the Malta Taekwondo Association for the opportunity given to its hard-working players.
