The following is the post I made on facebook after Nathan fought in Tokyo.
- “So there it is....with a ridiculously short timeframe within which to prepare, and a bit of a slow start in his first match against the higher ranked Peruvian who beat him 3 years ago, Nathan Katz demonstrated what it is to fight with a full heart and leave nothing on the mat. A great ippon-scoring throw to win his first match getting him into the round of 16 and then a solid match against the very physical World #8 Israeli to go the distance giving his all to full time and losing only by Wazari. Unfortunately this put Nathan out of the competition but he can and will hold his head high. As is the case for all of #teamkatz , Budokan Judo Club, Castle Hill, NSW, Australia / Budokan Judo, and all our Judo friends, friends and family, he should also be very, very proud. Massive thanks to National Coach Daniel Kelly (honorary TeamKatz member) for a huge effort in helping to bring out the best Judo in Nathan, to Josh Katz for being an amazing son, brother and training partner, and to all those who have supported Team Katz - Rio Olympians throughout the whole journey. We are grateful.
But the journey is far from over. Lessons have been learned and there is much to do, after a good, solid well-deserved rest. Meanwhile onwards and upwards for Judo Australia Olympic team-mates Katharina Hä (Haecker) and Aoife Coughlan fighting on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively. What a team - whatever it takes”. Katharina and Aoife also fought their hearts out both winning their first matches making the Round of 16. AMAZING COMMITMENT…AMAZING EFFORT…AMAZING PERFORMANCE