By GPC Sports Correspondent
Kenyan judoka Rael Kuloba’s campaign at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games came to an end after she lost her Repechage contest at the Dakar Expo Centre.
Kuloba returned to the tatami on Day Three seeking a second chance to progress after losing her Round of 16 bout against Viktoria Grigoryan.
She faced Boubacar Ousamane of Côte d’Ivoire in the second round of the Repechage, where she put up a spirited fight but eventually fell short.
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The Kenyan had taken a 1–0 lead in the closely contested encounter but could not hold on to her advantage, ending her hopes of advancing in the competition.
Despite the disappointment, Kuloba viewed the experience as an important learning opportunity, particularly after competing in the new -52kg weight category.
She said she was determined to return home and work on improving her pace, timing and technical skills ahead of future competitions.
Her coach, Johnson Kirimo, praised her effort and progress, noting that the experience would provide a valuable foundation for her continued development in the new weight category.
