“This gold medal is to thank my mom and my coach for all their support,” said Whitebooi afterwards. “While I was listening to music to psyche myself up before the final, the only two people in my mind were my mom, Minnie, and my coach, Nikola Filipov. I realised that I owe them both so much because it was their belief in my abilities that put me on the verge of making one of my goals a reality.”
Before the Championships Whitebooi explained that for her, judo is not only a means to improve her own life but also that of her mom.
“When my dad passed away my mom had to take over the roles of both parents. It was a challenge to her then and it still is. She always does her best to provide for us. In spite of not having a proper job, she finds a way to put food on the table and manages to push through even when times are tough. I love judo but with this love comes a responsibility to work hard to get somewhere,” the Tuks/HPC judoka said.
