Quintavalle a throw closer to London Games

Guilia Quintavalle is a few steps closer to qualifying for the 2012 Summer Olympics after winning her judo class in the IJF Grand Prix Abu Dhabi

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ABU DHABI // Guilia Quintavalle edged closer to earning a place in the 2012 Olympics Sunday night and then said claiming a second gold medal would be harder than winning her first.

The Italian won her category in the International Judo Federation Grand Prix Abu Dhabi to take 200 world ranking points, which go towards qualification for the London Games.

"After this win I think I am in for next summer's Olympics, but I want to make sure by accumulating more ranking points by taking part in the next GP event in Amsterdam," said the 2008 gold medal winner, who beat Juul Franssen of Holland in the women's 57kg and under weight division final at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

"My preparations have gone well so far, but it is very difficult to win an Olympic gold again. The competition is getting tougher, and there is also the pressure of being an Olympic champion. I will try my best, though."

Quintavalle, 28, won in Abu Dhabi for the first time in three attempts. She was third in 2009 and runner up last year.