Neighbor News
Knauf claims Gold at Pan American Judo Championships in Colombia
Alex Knauf of Cohen Brothers Judo took a Gold Medal at Pan American Judo Championships in Cali, Colombia
Cali, Colombia - Alex Knauf of Cohen Brothers Judo club took a Gold Medal in the Junior (17-20 years old) Pan American Judo Champions this past weekend. This win qualified Alex for the Pan American Games to be hosted in November in Colombia.
Alex started off the day with a bye and then had a huge throw against Axel of Honduras to set up a semi final match against Juan Diaz of Venezuela. This match went into over time with Alex dominating the fight. Finally the referee awarded Knauf the win after Diaz did a false attack.
In the final Alex met DANIEL ALBARRACIN PAZ of Colombia. Team USA and Team Colombia were both cheering very loud going back and fourth as both athletes had some great exchanges in throws however Knauf always had the edge. Going into a sudden death overtime, Alex kept the pressure on him and wore him down and knocked him down falling into a hold down (judo pin) for the win. The buzzer went off and Knauf arms went up in the air securing the Gold Medal.
Find out what's happening in Vernon Hillsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
This was a huge win for Alex and USA as it was our only gold in the Male divisions.
Harlee Hiller also from Cohen Brothers Judo was qualified for the Jr. Pan American Championships at 14 years old while her divisions is ages 17-20. She fought hard and with a lot of heart as always. Harlee won her opening match against Colombia with a big throw and hold down. In her quarterfinal match she lost to eventual Silver Medalist from Brazil. Then lost a very questionable match against Dominican Republic in overtime.
Find out what's happening in Vernon Hillsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Coach Cohen added "we are very proud of Harlee and this is a great learning experience for her, She will have many more opportunity's to compete at this level and this will just fuel her fire"
On day 1 in the Cadet divisions which is ages 14-17 Aiden Cohen took home a Bronze Medal. He lost a very close Semifinal match against Venezuela. Aiden ended up fight Ecuador for Bronze and throwing him for a full point to get on the podium.
Congratulations to all the members of Cohen Brothers Judo Club in Vernon Hills and Team USA for representing your country with class. We are a Team and we are a JUDO FAMILY
