India Shines at the Eurasia Kudo Cup, Securing 3 Gold and 13 Medals
Karnataka News
Sagar—The exceptional skills of Indian players were on full display at the Eurasia Kudo Cup Championship held in Armenia, where India emerged as a dominant force. The Indian team clinched an impressive total of 13 international medals, including three coveted gold medals. Representing India were 26 talented Kudo players, led by Mehul Vora, the head coach of Kudo India and Secretary General of Kudo Asia.
Dr. Mohammad Aijaz Khan, President of the Kudo Association, praised the Indian Kudo team for their outstanding performance, stating, Our athletes showcased remarkable talent, winning 3 gold medals, 6 silver medals, and 4 bronze medals in this competitive event. It is extraordinary to achieve 13 medals on the 13th anniversary of the Kudo Association of India, which feels like a fortuitous coincidence. The competition featured six Madhya Pradesh Kudo Association players, four of whom hailed from Sagar. Notably, three players from Sagar made history by winning bronze medals on foreign soil, marking a significant achievement for both their city and the state.
Sagar’s Medalists Shine on International Stage
The Sagar athletes who participated in the competition included Mohammad Sohail Khan, Apoorv Sen, Utkarsh Sen, and Vaishnavi Singh. Their hard work paid off, as each secured bronze medals in their respective categories. Sohail Khan won a bronze medal in the Senior Men’s -250 PI category, while Vaishnavi Singh earned hers in the Senior Women’s -220 PI category. Additionally, Utkarsh Patel claimed a bronze medal in the Under-19 Men’s -240 PI category.
This achievement is especially noteworthy because it represents the first time Sagar players have won medals at an international Kudo competition, highlighting their dedication and skill.
Warm Welcome to the Champions
Upon their return to Sagar, the players received a grand welcome at the railway station from their parents, sports enthusiasts, and officials from the Kudo Association. The celebration included garlands and heartfelt congratulations. Among the well-wishers were National Kudo Association Chairman and Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, along with Madhya Pradesh Kudo Association Chairman and local MLA Shailendra Jain, who extended their congratulations and best wishes for the athletes’ bright futures.
This event not only underscores the growing prominence of Kudo in India but also showcases the talent and determination of young athletes representing their country on the international stage. The achievements at the Eurasia Kudo Cup act as a source of motivation for future sportsmen across the nation, emphasizing the potential for success through hard work and commitment.
Controversy Erupts in Bihar’s Under-14 Taekwondo Championship Amid Allegations of Bias
Jamui—The Under-14 school-level Taekwondo competition currently taking place in Jamui district has become mired in controversy. Coaches and players from multiple districts are raising severe allegations of bias. Participants claim that the organizing committee has shown favoritism, and many plan to submit formal complaints to the District Magistrate.
The three-day state-level Under-14 Taekwondo Championship is being held at the sports building in the Khaira block area of Jamui. Athletes from over 24 districts in Bihar compete to select top performers to advance to the state-level tournament. However, as the competition approaches its conclusion, significant disputes have emerged.
Allegations of Bias by Players and Coaches
Players and coaches from districts like Chhapra, Kaimur, and Siwan have raised concerns about unfair practices. They allege that the referees appointed by the organizing federation exhibit bias towards players from their own districts or favored individuals. Many participants have expressed frustration, stating that despite their commendable performances, they have received insufficient points and were not advanced to subsequent rounds. In stark contrast, players from other districts who performed poorly have reportedly been promoted.
These allegations suggest that the selection process for the upcoming national competition may inadvertently favor unqualified participants while overlooking deserving athletes. The protesting coaches and players call for immediate action to address these grievances.
Formal Complaint to the District Magistrate
In response to the unfolding situation, affected parties are planning to approach the District Magistrate for intervention. They hope to ensure a fair evaluation process and rectify any potential misconduct that occurred during the competition.
The organizing committee has defended its actions, asserting that the competition has been conducted transparently and effectively. However, players have produced video evidence they believe illustrates bias during the matches. In response, the federation has stated that it did not arrange for videography of the event, casting doubt on the reliability of the footage presented by the players.
As the controversy escalates, it is evident that this state-level Taekwondo competition in Jamui is becoming increasingly contentious. A significant number of athletes are expected to meet with the District Magistrate to voice their concerns, leaving the outcome of this situation uncertain.
Participation from Across the State
The competition has attracted diverse participants, showcasing talent from various districts across Bihar. The representation includes 11 players from Jamui, 6 from Katihar, 8 from Nalanda, 7 from Nawada, 8 from Kaimur, 4 from Munger, 8 from Purnia, 13 from Lakhisarai, 7 from Buxar, 3 from Madhepura, 6 from Kishanganj, 5 from Bhagalpur, 11 from Begusarai, 10 from Saran, 10 from Motihari, 6 from Siwan, 4 from Rohtas, 10 from Gopalganj, 8 from Samastipur, 7 from Muzaffarpur, 8 from Patna, 9 from Eklavya Sports Academy, 8 from Gaya, and 10 players from Sheikhpura district. Numerous judges from various districts have also been appointed to officiate the matches.
For this Taekwondo championship, Anish Kumar from Muzaffarpur and Sadiq Akhtar from Kishanganj serve as chief referees. Assisting them are Amarendra Kumar from Patna, Zahid Hussain from East Champaran, and Amardev Tanti from Jamui, along with Dharmendra Kumar, Sanket Kumar from Patna, Ankit Kumar from Muzaffarpur, and Rohit Kumar from Jamui, who are serving as assistant referees.
The unfolding events at this championship serve as a reminder of the importance of fair play and transparency in sports. As players await a resolution to their concerns, the integrity of the competition hangs in the balance.
