‘Little Warriors’ of Sai Karate Academy Shine Internationally, Win 19 Medals at South Asia Championship

Report: Rajat Sharma

Gurugram: The young players of Sai Karate Academy, Gurugram delivered an outstanding performance at the 3rd JKS South Asia Karate Championship 2026, held at the prestigious Talkatora Indoor Stadium in the national capital, by winning a total of 19 medals and bringing pride to the region and the country.

Competing against participants from multiple countries, the academy’s players impressed everyone with their speed, technique, discipline, and confidence, giving tough competition to international-level athletes and earning widespread appreciation from spectators and officials alike.

Takshaditya Godara emerged as one of the top performers, winning gold medals in both Kata and Kumite categories, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. Myra Singh (8 years) stunned everyone with her remarkable performance in the -25 kg category, securing two gold medals in both Kata and Kumite.
Manvik Singh added to the tally with one gold and one bronze medal, while Aditya Dahiya (10 years) delivered a strong performance in the +35 kg category, winning one gold and one bronze medal.

Among other notable performers, Hridyansh Shahi (9 years) clinched silver and bronze medals in the +35 kg category. Ivan Rai also secured one silver and one bronze medal. In the girls’ category, Gauri Gupta won silver and bronze medals, while Thea Kapoor (9 years) earned two bronze medals in the -35 kg category.
Advik Hooda also impressed with one silver and one bronze medal, while Yuvan Singh Thakur received special appreciation for his spirited performance.

The success of the academy is largely credited to Shihan Sunil Saini, Chief Coach of Sai Karate Academy and General Secretary of Gurugram Karate. His expert guidance and international exposure have played a crucial role in preparing the players to compete at a high level. Under his leadership, the academy continues to produce excellent results at national and international competitions.

Based on their exceptional performance, 15 players from the academy have been selected for the upcoming international tournament to be held in Malaysia. The selected players include Harman Tiwari, Aryaveer Singh, Pihu Duhan, Rudra Duhan, Chirag, Aashka Godara, Shivank, Takshaditya Godara, Manvik Singh, Ivan Singh, Yuvan Singh, Gauri Gupta, Advik Hooda, Shruti Bhardwaj, Kanika Verma, and Aditya Dahiya.

Upon their return, all medal-winning players were given a grand स्वागत (welcome) at the academy. The young athletes expressed their determination to represent the nation on bigger platforms like the Asian Games and the Olympics, and to proudly hoist the national flag. Parents also expressed immense joy and appreciated the efforts of the academy and its coaching staff.

This remarkable achievement stands as an inspiration for budding athletes across the country, proving that with dedication, proper training, and strong mentorship, success on the international stage is well within reach.