Doha, January 09 (QNA) - With one day to the start of the IJF World Judo Masters Doha 2021, the venue, Lusail Multipurpose Hall, is already wearing a new look in readiness for the 2020 Tokyo Games qualifying event which takes place at the ultra-modern venue from January 11 to 13.
The hall is looking splendidly radiant after the branding''s completion, and the necessary makeovers have also been done as Doha is set to host some of the world''s best judokas.
Aside from this, all the venue facilities are in top shape with all the required technical and logistical equipment in place.
The tournament features over 400 athletes - 215 male and 185 female - from 70 countries representing five continental federations namely the African Judo Union, Judo Union of Asia, and European Judo Union, Oceania Judo Union and Pan-American Judo Confederation.
Top on the list of top judokas who will be in action in Doha includes Teddy Riner of France, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and ten-time world champion in the +100kg, Idalys Ortiz of Cuba - the 2012 Olympic gold medalist in the +78kg female category, and Japan''s Soichi Hashimoto - world No.1 in the lightweight division and four-time World Championships gold medalist.
Aside from the branding and venue preparation, the tournament organisers are also not leaving any stone unturned in ensuring that the competition is held under the safest condition given the current global COVID 19 pandemic.
To this end, the International Judo Federation (IJF) and Qatar Taekwondo, Judo and Karate Federation (QTJKF) have jointly set up health protocols in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, and the Ministry of Interior to accommodate all delegations in one hotel in a quarantine. All the participants will undergo PCR test, first on arrival before being taken to their hotels. Another test will be conducted before they compete on each day of the tournament.
Tournament Director Eid Al Meraikhi said, "We are happy with the progress of things so far, and we are very impressed with the level of our preparation for the IJF World Judo Masters Doha 2021. All arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and stress-free tournament. We are ready to host the world, and we believe all participants will leave Doha at the end of the competition with lasting memories. Qatar is globally renowned for hosting very successful sporting events, and we are building on that reputation with this tournament." The tournament will feature competition in seven categories for both men and women, and it will be streamed live on the IJF website and social media channels. (QNA)