Japan-based judoka Josateki Naulu joined the Team Fiji contingent in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil yesterday and is focused on doing his country proud at the Olympic Games.

Naulu who is competing in the men’s 81kg category, says, he has completed his preparations and has done whatever phases he needs to work on before his competition on Sunday.

“Preparations have been good,” the 2012 London Olympic Games flag bearer said.

“I have been training in Japan for the past few years, preparing for the Olympics and it’s been really good. On my fitness level, I have done everything I need to with the guidance of my coach Takashi Iwasaki and I just can’t wait for the competition.”

Naulu said he is very cautious when it comes to his diet and is making sure not to carry excessive weight before his weigh-in on Saturday. “When you walk in the dining hall the food looks so tempting. It’s really nice but for me I have to watch my weight in the next two days before my weigh-in on Saturday. I’m just eating vegetables and keeping myself hydrated and not so much of meat,” he added.

This is Naulu’s second Olympic Games and his qualification for Rio was based on merit. He knows what to expect from his opponents during the competition.

“For my category I know most of the guys as we have been training together during the world circuit. I’m looking forward to the battle.

“Everyone’s tough the Europe countries, Georgia, Russia so I don’t think there is an easy fight but I will take one fight at a time. I’m just looking at finishing the first round before moving forward.”

Naulu was fortunate to be a recipient of the Olympic scholarship for athletes to prepare for “Rio 2016” programme. In Japan, Naulu has participated in the International Judo Federation tournaments in Europe and also at the Oceania championship where he qualified for Rio.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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