Read an inspiring interview with the vice-president of OK BiH, prof. Dr. Milanko Mučibabić, who was announced by the International Judo Federation after winning the fourth title of World Champion for veterans.

Milanko Mučibabić was the President of the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina twice (2004 - 2005 and 2022 - 2023). He is still a member of the Executive Committee of OK BiH (and Vice-President of OK BiH), and he is also a top judoka. That's the least we can say, as he won his 4th Veteran World Championship on the first day of the Abu Dhabi 2023 Veteran World Championship. Added to this are 4 continental titles and the 9th DAN. The day after the performance, prof. Dr. Milanko, who was born in Mostar, looks back on his result, but above all, his love for judo.

"I'm really tired today, but it's a good tiredness. I'm happy and proud of this result. I've been on the tatami mat for sixty years and it's still a great pleasure for me to do judo. Our sport is a long-term passion... Every time I participate in a competition, I prepare as best I can and this year my preparations were optimal. I think what keeps me going is judo itself. There is so much to learn and discover in the sport. I believe that the best victory is always the one you win against yourself, against your own fears, against your demons that you may have inside you. I am my own enemy and judo allows me to win.

I was very nervous before the competition, also on the day of the competition, but I found ways to win. That's what I'm most proud of. I know I'm capable of pitching, but in the end it's all in my head. With this, I believe that veterans become role models for society. We are examples for ourselves, but also an example for younger judokas.

As a member of the judo community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I represent our sport and its values within the Olympic Movement. I am convinced after all these years that the message conveyed by judo is crucial. Of course, it is about respect, but also about connecting people, mutual help and joint work. These are the principles of judo and olympism.

We all have our goals, but the most important thing is the path and the legacy we can leave to future generations."

By winning the new veteran title of world champion, Milanko Mučibabić sets the bar very high. Although the example is his own, it can serve many. This is what he will continue to do in the years to come. On his way to a fifth world title next year?

Source text and photo: IJF