The dream of representing Brazil at the Rio 2007 Pan American Games is more distant, but it's not over for judoka Leonardo Leite. Despite winning the bronze medal in the under-100kg category at the Judo World Cup, held on May 6th and 7th in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, the red-and-black athlete showed great grit and determination.

Fresh from a cold and experiencing severe pain, Leonardo couldn't survive the semifinal against Germany's Benjamin Behrla. Unlike the first two matches that secured his place in the semifinals, the judoka ended up losing by two yukos and a wazari.

With this result, Leonardo Leite's chances of securing his spot at the Pan American Games have become more remote. The official list of names that will represent Brazil at the largest sporting event in the Americas will be released on Friday, May 11th.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian team will remain in Belo Horizonte, where they will undertake a period of international field training with the other teams that competed in the World Cup.

Thanks, Leo!! Another red-and-black with potential. Don't be discouraged, the 2008 Beijing Olympics are here!!!