Canada’s Jessica Klimkait wins judo bronze at Tokyo Olympics

Canada’s Jessica Klimkait has won bronze in the women’s under-57 kilogram category at the Tokyo Olympics.

The 24-year-old from Whitby, Ont., defeated Kaja Kajzer of Slovenia in the semi-final to claim bronze. Kosovo’s Judoka Nora Gjakova won the Olympic gold medal, beating Sarah-Leonie Cysique of France in the final.

Klimkait is the first Canadian woman to ever win an Olympic medal in judo.

“It means a lot to me,” Klimkait said in a press conference after the event. “This was my goal since I started judo from a little girl, so I’m really happy.”

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“The last two or three years, there was a lot of uncertainty if I would even be here at this Olympic Games. So once I knew that it was official, my eyes were set on the podium. Obviously, I hoped for more, but I’m happy that I collected myself to reach the podium anyways.”

Klimkait added that she would like to share this medal with all the friends, family, coaches and training partners who have supported her over the years. “They deserve a piece of this as well,” she said.

Japan’s Tsukasa Yoshida also won bronze in the event.

– with files from Reuters