By Spanish Federation for Blind Sport

Six Spanish Judoka will travel to Antalya, Turkey, for the first IBSA Judo World Cup of 2018 which gets underway on Sunday (22 April).

The athletes join those from more than 30 other countries, including big hitters Azerbaijan, Brazil and South Korea.

Sergio Ibanez (-60kg), Borja Pahissa (- 60kg), David Garcia (-66kg), Luis Daniel Gavilan (-66kg) and Alvaro Gavilan (-73kg) will compete in the men’s. Marta Arce will represent her country in the women’s -63kg.

The men will take to the tatami on Sunday whilst Arce will compete on Monday (23 April). Despite the fierce competition expected in Antalya, the Spanish team are optimistic about their preparations.

After the competition they will also take part in an international training camp.

The World Cup and camp will be a important part of their preparations for the 2018 IBSA Judo World Championships in Lisbon, Portugal, from 16-18 November.