Aina Laura Rasoanaivo Razafy was born on 24 January, 2004 in Antananarivo, Madagascar. She is in the -70kg weight category in Judo. In 2022, she showcased her skills and determination by earning the title of African champion at the Junior African Championships held in Nairobi, Kenya.
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 in pursuit of qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Games.
How did you first discover Judo, and what drew you to the sport?
I started Judo when I was 10 because my parents are Judoka, and out of curiosity, I began to find pleasure in it, which made me stick with it.
Can you share a bit about your journey from being a beginner to becoming a competitive Judo athlete?
It was all about passion. I didn’t put any pressure on my career because I truly love it. I worked hard with what I had and always gave my 100% during training. I stayed consistent, and success started to follow.
What challenges did you face when transitioning from the -63kg weight category to the -70kg category, and how did you overcome them?
Fighting in the -63kg category was always a challenge for me due to weight cutting, especially since I was quite young. I decided to move up to the -70kg category so that I could focus solely on fighting instead of losing weight. It turned out to be a great decision as it made me more powerful and allowed me to truly concentrate on my Judo skills.
How did your training and preparation change when you made the transition to the -70kg category?
Not much changed, except that I incorporated more power training and focused on improving my techniques.
Do you regularly participate in training camps, and how do they contribute to your development as an athlete?
I rarely have the opportunity to participate in training camps, but I believe they are essential for improvement. They provide exposure to different styles of Judo and athletes, allowing me to discover new techniques and learn from others. It’s also important for networking and socializing within the Judo community.
How do you manage to maintain your physical and mental well-being during intense training periods and competitions?
I never put pressure on myself before competitions. Instead, I focus on my mental preparation, mindset, and maintaining a positive headspace. If I neglect my mental well-being, I’ll struggle. Physically, it’s generally easier, as I engage in proper preparations and Judo training, which usually yield positive results.
Winning the Junior Africa Champs in 2022 must have been a significant achievement. Can you describe how it felt to stand on top of the podium?
I honestly didn’t expect such an achievement. I went into the competition with the simple intention of giving my all and enjoying the fights. The victories came automatically, and it felt incredibly surreal. It was a dream come true not only for me but also for my country and family.
What lessons did you learn from your experiences at the Junior Africa Champs that have helped shape your approach to competitions since then?
The competition changed my mindset, teaching me to focus on giving a good fight rather than fixating on the result. It reminded me that I am a great athlete who needs to believe in myself and not be afraid.
Competing at four Junior and Senior African Continental Cups this year and winning multiple medals is an outstanding accomplishment. How do you stay motivated and focused amidst such high-level competition?
I set goals for myself and keep pushing forward, even when motivation is lacking. I made a promise to achieve my goals, so I persist and remain patient, always hoping for better. Taking care of my mindset plays a significant role in maintaining motivation.
Can you walk us through your preparation process leading up to these competitions? How did you ensure you were at your best physically and mentally?
I never change my preparation process. I always focus on the details, not trying to control too much and instead letting my instincts guide me. Judo runs through my veins, and I always feel connected to it. I strive to be fully present in every training session, progressing little by little.
Winning seven gold medals and one bronze medal this year is remarkable. How do you handle the pressure of performing consistently at such a high level?
There is no pressure in my mind, nor does it come from my coach or family. They provide me with perfect support and understanding. Since I genuinely love competing, the pressure is lessened.
What has been the most memorable moment or match for you during these competitions, and why?
Winning my three golds and one bronze in Tunis and Algiers was a tremendous achievement. Emotionally, I felt immense pride in myself, especially since I didn’t have a coach and had to adapt to various conditions. At that moment, I knew I was a warrior.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for the rest of the year? Are there any specific tournaments or achievements you’re targeting?
My most important goals for this year are the African Senior and Junior Championships, as well as the World Junior Championships. I also aim to progress in my Judo skills and develop more effective tactics for my fights.
With the Olympic Games being the pinnacle of the sport, what are your goals for this prestigious event?
Becoming an Olympian has always been my dream. Qualifying for the Olympics is a significant milestone, and I’m currently focusing on the qualification process.
How would you describe the current state of Judo in Africa? What are some strengths and weaknesses you observe?
African Judoka are great and incredibly determined. However, certain challenges, such as limited training camps and lack of resources, hinder our progress.
In your opinion, what improvements do you think can be made to enhance the development and popularity of Judo in Africa?
Solidarity is crucial, as well as fostering passion and love for Africa. If we don’t have love for our roots, it’s challenging to progress. Therefore, organizing African training camps even after competitions would greatly contribute to the development and popularity of Judo in Africa.
Finally, what message or advice do you have for young aspiring Judo athletes in Africa and beyond who are looking to make a mark in the sport?
The key is to trust in your skills and work hard. Believe in yourself and remain dedicated to your goals.
