In the Kurogi and Poomsae Taekwondo championships, athletes from Ratnagiri excelled, securing a total of 34 medals, marking a significant achievement in the sport. The Ratnagiri Taekwondo Sports Association orchestrated a series of competitions encompassing senior women, men, cadets, juniors, and sub-juniors. The enthusiastic event took place at the Babasaheb Ambedkar Bhavan in Rajapur, drawing participation from 400 skilled players, including 60 from Ratnagiri.
The tournament showcased outstanding performances across various categories, reflecting the rigorous training and dedication fostered under the guidance of esteemed coaches such as Shah Rukh Sheikh, Milind Bhagwat, Prashant Makwana, and Aradhya Makwana. The support and encouragement extended by officials like Venkateshrao Karra, Laxman Karra, Shashank Ghadshi, and Vishwadas Lokhande added to the competitive spirit of the event.
The accolades were well-deserved, with athletes earning 22 gold medals, 12 silver medals, and 10 bronze medals. Among the gold medalists were standout performers like Atharva Murkute, Partha Gurav, Swara Sakhalkar, and Vedant Chavan, showcasing exceptional skill and determination in their respective categories. Silver medals were secured by talents such as Rohit Kundkar, Anfal Naik, and Tushar Kolekar, while bronze medals were claimed by athletes including Aditya More, Mayuresh Gawli, and Saket Parkar.
The championship not only celebrated athletic prowess but also highlighted the role of sportsmanship and discipline instilled through Taekwondo. National umpires including Sahil Abrekar, Sai Sawant, Prasanna Gawde, and Manli Betkar ensured fair play and adherence to rules, contributing to the overall success of the tournament.
This triumph throws light on the growing prominence of Taekwondo and MMA in general in Ratnagiri and Maharashtra, as well as all over India, supported by a robust network of coaches, officials, and dedicated athletes. The community’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting physical fitness through martial arts is commendable, paving the way for future champions and inspiring generations to come.
