PANAJI
Students of the School of Karate & Kick Boxing, Cuncolim and Shiroda, and Oxford School, Fatorda, Margao, produced an impressive display at the State Kata Championship held at the Indoor Stadium, Ponda, recently.
The combined contingent from the three centres finished runners-up in the one-day championship, returning with a rich haul of 129 medals, including 66 gold, 43 silver and 20 bronze.
The students also dominated the Boys' Open Kata category, completing a clean sweep of the podium. Jonas Vaz emerged champion, with Pritivik Jena finishing second and Sohaim Suelkar third.
Krisha Moraes added another gold to the centres' tally by winning the Girls' Open Kata category.
The performances reflected the students' technical ability, discipline and competitive spirit, as well as the consistent training they have received at the three centres.
The students train under chief instructor Ramakant Gaonkar, assisted by instructors Edney Pinto and Tirmal Dassar. The coaching team has focused on developing their technical skills, confidence, discipline and competitive ability.
The championship was organised by Okinwa Martial Arts Centres and featured participants from across Goa. According to the organisers, around 10 to 15 championships are held during the year, giving martial arts students regular opportunities to compete and gain valuable experience.
The 129-medal haul, including 66 gold medals, marks a significant achievement for the students, coaches and their families, while underlining the growing interest and emerging talent in karate and kick boxing in Goa.
