The dream of representing Brazil in the Olympics is part of any athlete's life. It's no different for CRFlamengo judoka Leonardo Leite. At the peak of his 29 years, the red-and-black has been preparing himself mentally and dedicating most of his time to physical and technical training.

In the midst of the Olympic process, Leonardo, who was a reserve for the Brazilian team at the XV Pan American Games Rio-2007, will once again be competing for the starting spot in the light heavyweight category (-100kg) with Luciano Correa from Minas Gerais.

Both will face two difficult international competitions. Only after analyzing their performances in these competitions will the red-and-black team know whether they will represent Brazil on the Brazilian judo team in Beijing.

Next Monday (21/1), Leonardo Leite will be participating in technical training in the city of São Paulo, where he will undergo exams and evaluations.

The red-and-black team's first challenge will be the Super World Cup in Hamburg, Germany, from February 23rd to 28th. Leonardo will then face opponents from the Prague leg of the World Cup, from March 1st to 3rd. If there's a tie or doubts on the part of the Brazilian national team's coaching staff, Leonardo and Luciano will face a third test, the New York Open, from March 5th to 10th.

"I'm feeling great, like never before. I've been asked if Luciano going to the first stage increases the pressure. I said no, because it's irrelevant to me. Regardless of whether he does well or not, I'll give my all to secure a spot. Both stages will be very intense and very difficult. It will be the Europeans' last chance to qualify for the Olympics, and because of that, they'll be at full strength for both stages."

Photo: Marcio Rodrigues