Aina Laura Rasoanaivo Razafy was born on 24 January, 2004 in Antananarivo, Madagascar. She is in the -70kg weight category in Judo. Laura is a 3 time African champion and 1 time bronze medallist. Laura has emerged as a formidable force in African Judo, amassing an impressive collection of 1 bronze and 7 Continental gold medals in the first half of 2023.
These outstanding achievements have not only solidified her position as a dominant force in her sport but also contributed significantly to her accumulation of valuable World Ranking points which qualified her for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris aged just 20.
An exceptional athlete, becoming African Junior and Senior champion at age 19, the rising star is one to watch for the future.
You mentioned starting Judo at age 10 because your parents were Judokas. How did their involvement influence your early training and passion for the sport?
To be honest, they just supported me in the idea of starting and competing. However, continuing to be successful was solely my personal goal, with the coach’s help.
Can you share a specific memory or moment from your early training days that significantly impacted your decision to pursue Judo seriously?
In the Indian Ocean ‘Island Games’ held every four years at a special location, I was selected in 2019 at age 15 to compete in the under 63 kg category and won a Gold medal. I couldn’t believe it; it completely changed my mentality and emotions. Also, becoming the African champion in 2022 in a new weight category was a huge accomplishment and a great start to my junior career.
You highlighted the benefits of moving to the -70kg category. Were there any unexpected challenges you faced during this transition?
Moving to under 70 kg in my first junior year was entirely my decision. I couldn’t cut weight anymore and just wanted to focus on Judo without additional problems. It turned out to be the best choice because I became stronger and didn’t pressure myself. The more I compete, the more I win. Two main goals I set were a better diet and more effective power sessions. I love strength training and feel confident about my physique; I simply added more weight to the bar and increased explosivity.
What specific power training techniques or exercises did you incorporate to adapt to the new weight category?
For that, I focused on developing a tactical approach that could work against any type of judo, and also on improving my physical endurance.
Given the limited opportunities for training camps, how do you seek out alternative methods to gain exposure to different Judo styles and techniques?
For that, I focused on developing a tactical approach that can work against any type of Judo, and also on improving my physical endurance.
Can you describe a particular training camp experience that was especially beneficial for your development as an athlete?
The Japan 2023 training camp helped me understand more about ‘real Judo’. The long, hard training sessions were incredibly beneficial, focusing on control and smoothness. The Tata Olympic training camp in 2024 also helped me become a better fighter, particularly in facing European opponents with much more aggression.
Who has been your biggest influence or role model in your Judo career, and why?
No one specifically; I really focus on myself. I have a lot of self-esteem and believe in my skills. My sole focus is on becoming a better version of myself.
You emphasize mental preparation and maintaining a positive mindset. Do you use any specific mental training techniques, such as visualization or meditation?
Of course, visualization and meditation are key for me. No one helped me with that; I simply talked to myself clearly and took time to visualize standing on the podium.
How do you ensure you balance rest and recovery with intense training to avoid burnout?
Rest is crucial for my training performance. Sleep, physiotherapy, a great diet, massage, and hammam are essential for recovery and injury prevention.
What do you consider to be your greatest strength as a Judoka, and how has it contributed to your success?
I’m someone who doesn’t worry about things I cannot control; I tell myself I CAN do it. I never doubt myself; I just work harder. My focus is solely on myself, on improving every day. I avoid overthinking.
In your opinion, what is the most important quality or trait that a successful Judoka should possess?
Mental strength and self-confidence, combined with smart training, are fundamental. You can’t be a champion without trusting yourself, having determination, and engaging in effective training.
Without a coach present, how do you strategize and adjust during matches to ensure you perform at your best?
When I don’t have a coach, I set my plan and strategy and stick to it throughout the match. I think faster than my opponent during the fight and trust my instincts.
Have you faced any significant setbacks or injuries in your career? If so, how did you manage to recover and come back stronger?
I’ve rarely suffered injuries, but when I have, I stay patient and trust my physiotherapy team.
You spoke about the determination of African Judokas despite challenges. Can you share an example of how this determination has manifested in your own career or among your peers?
Personally, I often travel and do training camps alone, which can be a slow path to progress. However, I’m proud of my courage and determination.
What role do you see yourself playing in fostering solidarity and passion for judo among young African athletes?
I already fight for my country and proudly represent my continent. My hope is to become an Olympic and World Champion in a few years, proving that anyone can achieve their dreams with determination.
You’re currently ranked number 3 in the world in the Junior ranking and number 38 in the Senior ranking, having been ranked number 1 in Juniors. How did it feel to be ranked the best in your weight category in the world? What did that accomplishment mean to you?
Being ranked number 1 in the world in Juniors was one of my greatest accomplishments in sports. Just two years earlier, I wasn’t ranked in either category. It means a lot to me and motivates me to push myself even further.
You became the African Junior and Senior champion at age 19. How did it feel to achieve such significant milestones so early in your career, and what impact has it had on your approach to the sport and your future goals?
Achieving my goals at such a young age is unbelievable. I’m patient and trust in timing. Achieving these milestones boosts my confidence and maturity, driving me towards future success.
You became champion at the 13th African Games Individuals in 2024 and the IX Jeux de la Francophonie in 2023. Tell us more about these competitions and what it meant for you to win these titles.
My first African Games in 2019, at age 15, ended with a 7th place finish after losing in the repechage. Winning these titles meant I didn’t put pressure on myself and had a solid strategy from the first fight to the final, setting me up mentally for the African Championship.
How does it feel to have qualified for your first Olympic Games at the age of 20?
It’s unbelievable and surreal. I always promised myself I would be an Olympian someday, but not this soon. It shows that focusing on passion and hard work attracts success.
How are you preparing for the Olympics? Can you share some insights into your training regimen, mental preparation, and any specific strategies you are focusing on for the competition?
In Madagascar, I focus mostly on physical training with strength and technical judo sessions. During training camps abroad, I intensify judo and randori for competitive readiness.
What’s your favourite moment from this Olympic cycle? Is there a particular achievement, competition, or experience that stands out to you?
Every part is special, but winning 3 golds and 1 bronze at the Tunis and Algiers Africa Open 2023 without a coach or staff was incredible. It made me realize I could qualify for the continental qualification and become an Olympian.
What are your long-term goals in judo beyond the Olympics? Do you have any plans or aspirations outside of the sport?
After the Olympics, I plan to focus on personal goals, studies, and other pursuits. I have many passions and want to explore different paths. My Judo journey has inspired me to focus on personal development and possibly establish a sports centre in Madagascar.
You suggested organizing training camps after competitions. How do you think this initiative can be practically implemented, and who do you think should lead these efforts?
Organizing training camps after African Opens or championships is a great idea for African judo athletes. It should start by sharing news among African Union members, federations, and athletes, and then move forward with implementation.
What other initiatives or programs do you think could help overcome the resource limitations faced by African Judokas?
The African Judo Union should be more open, first among African countries and then with European or Asian judo unions. This cooperation can help elevate the level of African athletes. The International Judo Federation is also known for helping some countries and has already opened a centre in Hungary for athletes aiming for Olympic qualification.
Your advice to young athletes includes trusting their skills and working hard. Can you share a personal story where perseverance and self-belief played a crucial role in your success?
Self-belief helped me win my very first African Junior Championship title and several African Open golds in a row. Every time I train, I give it 100%, or I don’t train at all. I adore pushing myself because I know my goal is hard, so I work even harder.
Lastly, what additional support or resources do you think young aspiring Judokas need to thrive and make a mark in the sport?
Especially for African athletes, we need more than just hard judo training to become world champions or Olympic medallists. We need a system, a staff, and more specialists: a professional judo trainer, a personal coach, a mental coach, a physiotherapist, and more. We need to be surrounded by people who believe in our capacity, supporting us before, during, and after a competition. We also need a sports centre where we can train, rest, and prepare for tournaments and the Olympic cycle.
