Goa’s Young Karate Prodigies Excel at Indo–Sri Lanka Open Championship, Clinch 17 Medals

Goa’s Young Karate Prodigies Excel at Indo–Sri Lanka Open Championship, Clinch 17 Medals
MARGAO: Goa’s emerging karate prodigies showcased exceptional skill, discipline and competitive prowess at the Indo–Sri Lanka Open Karate Championship 2026, held on October 3rd and 4th at the Manohar Parrikar Indoor Stadium, Margao. The young contingent trained under the expert guidance of Sensei Sandesh Kolikar delivered an impressive performance, collectively securing an outstanding haul of 17 medals, comprising 4 Gold, 4 Silver and 9 Bronze medals, across the Kata and Kumite categories.
The prestigious two-day championship witnessed spirited participation from martial artists representing five Indian states, besides a contingent from Sri Lanka, providing the young Goan athletes with a significant international-level competitive platform.
Leading Goa’s golden charge was Ikaya Shirodkar of Mapusa Dojo, who demonstrated remarkable consistency and technical excellence to secure two Gold medals. Divija Khot of Mapusa Dojo further strengthened Goa’s medal tally with one Gold and one Bronze medal, while Lavanya Pednekar of Siolim Dojo produced an equally commendable performance, clinching one Gold and one Silver medal.
The Silver medallists also displayed considerable determination and fighting spirit. Aryan Shinde of Thivim Dojo secured one Silver and one Bronze medal, while Aayansh Redkar and Reyaansh Naik of Assonora Dojo each contributed one Silver and one Bronze medal to Goa’s impressive overall tally.
In the Bronze medal category, Aarav Puranik and Mahaj Vinayak Porob, both representing Thivim Dojo, distinguished themselves by securing two Bronze medals each. Shreyaan Bude, also of Thivim Dojo, added another Bronze medal, thereby completing Goa’s impressive 17-medal haul.
The remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the athletes’ perseverance, rigorous training and unwavering commitment to excellence. Their performance also reflects the dedicated efforts of their parents and Sensei Sandesh Kolikar, whose guidance and encouragement have played an instrumental role in nurturing these young talents.
The outstanding showing by Goa’s young karate practitioners at a championship featuring both national and international participation has brought considerable pride to the State and underlined the growing potential of its next generation of martial artists.