Olympics: Stormont confirmed as games judo rep

1.00pm

Auckland's Rochelle Stormont has been confirmed as New Zealand's sole judo representative at the Athens Olympics in August.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) and New Zealand Judo Federation announced today that Stormont, who was fifth at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, will compete in the under 52kg category.

She was beaten by the eventual gold and silver medallists at Manchester.

Stormont has recently changed weight divisions from under-48kg to her present category. However it proved to be no obstacle for the talented 21-year-old, who went on to win the gold medal at the recent Oceania Championships to confirm her place in Athens.

NZOC secretary general Barry Maister is impressed with Stormont's qualification.

"She has made the tough transition to a heavier weight division and managed to accumulate enough points to earn her place in the Olympic team," he said.

New Zealand Judo Federation convenor of selectors, Harry O'Rourke said they were hoping Stormont would build on her Commonwealth games and Oceania record.

"She is a young lady of talent and determination and her domination of the Oceania Championships in the new weight category shows that her travel and training in Europe has certainly paid off.

"She goes with our total support."

- NZPA