Reigning champion ends Gemma Howell’s hopes
Telford judo star Gemma Howell had her world title hopes ended by reigning champion Arai Chizuru.
The Japanese ace proved too strong for Howell when they met yesterday in the second round of the under-70kg competition in Baku.
Howell, who begun the day by defeating Gabon’s Karene Ogono Wora in the opening round, went into the contest in confident mood, having recorded a win over Chizuru earlier in the season.
But she was unable to replicate that performance on the biggest stage, despite a valiant effort, with Chizuru throwing her for a waza-ari and winning with a hold down.
A waza-ari had earlier proved decisive for Howell as she negotiated a tricky contest against the physical Wora, who remained well in the fight throughout.
Powys player Natalie Powell was today due to start her campaign in the under-78kg category. Shrewsbury’s Sarah Adlington, who fights at over-78kg, will be in action tomorrow.
