Born: 1963 (Sanremo, Italy)
Biography:
Maria Teresa Motta is an Italian former judoka who achieved remarkable success in her career. Born on April 19, 1963, in Sanremo, in the province of Imperia, she made a significant impact on the sport through her exceptional skills and determination.
At the age of 18, Motta made her mark in the judo world by winning a bronze medal at the European Championships in Madrid in the open class. This was just the beginning of her illustrious career as she continued to excel on the international stage.
In 1982, Motta added another bronze medal to her collection at the World Championships in Paris, this time competing in the +72 kg category. Her performance showcased her strength and skill, solidifying her reputation as a formidable competitor.
The following year, Motta reached new heights by becoming the European champion in the +72 kg category and winning a silver medal in the open class in Genoa. Her versatility and adaptability in different weight classes highlighted her exceptional talent.
In 1984, Motta continued to impress by securing two more European medals. She earned a silver medal in the open class and a bronze medal in the +72 kg category at Pirmasens. This demonstrated her consistency and resilience in the face of tough competition.
The pinnacle of Motta’s career came in the same year when she claimed the title of world champion in the +72 kg category in Vienna. Her triumph in the final against the Chinese judoka Gao Fenglian solidified her status as one of the best in the world. This achievement served as an inspiration to aspiring judokas around the globe.
In 1985, Motta added another accolade to her name by winning a bronze medal in the +72 kg category at the European Championships in Landskrona. Her consistency at the top level of competition demonstrated her unwavering dedication and skill.
Although women’s judo was only a demonstration sport at the 1988 Seoul Games, Motta participated and showcased her talent on the Olympic stage. Undeterred by the lack of official recognition, she continued to pursue excellence in her sport.
In 1990, Motta secured another European bronze medal, this time in the +72 kg category in Frankfurt am Main. Her ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout her career illustrated her commitment to the sport and her determination to succeed.
At the age of 29, Motta made her second appearance at the Olympic Games in Barcelona in 1992. It was a historic moment for women’s judo as medals were awarded for the first time in the sport. Motta competed in the +72 kg category and finished in 16th place, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the pioneers of women’s judo.
Throughout her career, Maria Teresa Motta’s achievements and contributions to the sport of judo have been commendable. Her dedication, talent, and determination continue to inspire generations of judokas, especially women, to pursue their dreams in the martial arts arena.
Awards:
– World Championships: 1 gold medal (+72 kg, Vienna 1984), 1 bronze medal (+72 kg, Paris 1982)
– European Championships: 1 gold medal (+72 kg, Genoa 1983), 2 silver medals (open class, Genoa 1983; open class, Pirmasens 1984), 4 bronze medals (open class, Madrid 1981; +72 kg, Pirmasens 1984; +72 kg, Landskrona 1985; +72 kg, Frankfurt am Main 1990)