Nappe Family Dominates German Championships with Impressive Budosport Medal Haul
The Association for Traditional Budosport (VTB) showcased exceptional talent at the German Individual Championships of the IBF Association in Neuss, securing a remarkable eight gold, six silver, and two bronze medals. The team, largely comprised of athletes from the Ammerland region, demonstrated a high level of performance across various disciplines, solidifying their position as a leading force in the sport.
“It was a successful day for us,” a VTB coaching team representative stated. “With numerous podium places in Kata and Kumite, the VTB athletes once again demonstrated their high level of performance. We were thrilled by the fighting attitude and the cohesion within the team.”
Hiroki Nappe: A Four-Time Champion
Leading the charge was Hiroki Nappe of VTB Westerstede, who proved unbeatable in the junior class. The versatile athlete captured four titles, excelling in weapon kata, individual kata, kumite, and synchronized kata. He achieved the synchronized kata victory alongside teammates Nele Lüerßen and Kijara Hendygk, both from VTB Rastede.
Hiroki’s success builds upon a growing legacy within the Nappe family. His older brother, Jyun Nappe, further expanded their medal collection by winning the kumite title in the senior class (up to 60 kilograms). He also secured second place in weapon kata, fourth in individual kata, and another silver in synchronized kata, partnering with Mizuho Nappe and Jonathan Hoffmann from Budokan Hude.
Hendygk Shines for Rastede
Kijara Hendygk of VTB Rastede also enjoyed a successful competition weekend. In addition to her silver medal in the synchronized kata team, she claimed the kumite title in the 50 kilogram class and earned a third-place finish in the individual kata.
The VTB’s strong showing was further bolstered by impressive performances from Nele Lüerßen (Rastede, gold in kumite, up to 40 kilos), Keno Gimber (Rastede, silver in kumite, up to 35 kilograms), Kimberly Eichler (Westerstede, silver in kumite, up to 40 kilograms), and Marie Goletz (Westerstede, silver in kumite, up to 30 kilograms). Goletz and Eichler, alongside Paulina Hinrichs from Oldenburg, also secured a third-place finish in synchronized kata during their debut performance in the discipline.
The VTB’s success at the IBF German Individual Championships underscores the dedication and skill of its athletes and coaches, marking a significant achievement for the club and the Ammerland region. .
