8-Year-Old from Gangtok Clinches Silver at National Taekwondo Championship

An 8-year-old student from Gangtok, Shivani Thapa, has made Sikkim proud by winning a silver medal at a national-level taekwondo championship. Shivani, a Class IV student at St. Thomas’ School, competed in the Sub-Junior Girls’ 24 kg category at the National Kyorugi Championship held at Palzor Stadium from August 23 to 25. She secured the second position, demonstrating remarkable skill and composure for someone of her age. Her achievement not only highlights her individual talent but also showcases the growing presence of young athletes from Sikkim in national sports competitions.

The championship attracted over 350 athletes from across India, turning Gangtok into a temporary hub for martial arts during the event. Organised by the Sikkim Amateur Taekwondo Association (SATA) in collaboration with India Taekwondo and Khelo India, the competition tested participants’ skill, discipline, and perseverance, with competitors from diverse regions and backgrounds coming together to vie for national recognition. The event provided a platform for young athletes like Shivani to demonstrate their commitment, technique, and mental toughness on a large stage.

Shivani represented the Sikkim United Taekwondo Dojang, a local martial arts academy where she trains under the guidance of senior coaches, including international referee Bijay Gurung and national referee Chultem Palmu Bhutia. Her dedication and consistent training played a pivotal role in her success at the championship. Despite her young age, she exhibited exceptional focus, agility, and competitive spirit, qualities essential to succeed at such a prestigious event. Her performance underscores the importance of early training, mentorship, and structured guidance in nurturing young athletes to perform at national levels.

Competing and excelling at a national event at the age of 8 reflects both talent and resilience. It also serves as an inspiring example for other children in Sikkim and beyond, emphasizing that dedication and practice from a young age can yield remarkable results. Her achievement has drawn attention not only to her personal capabilities but also to the potential of sports programs and martial arts academies in the region to develop young talent.

Teachers, classmates, and the larger school community at St. Thomas’ School expressed pride in Shivani’s accomplishment. They noted that her success could motivate other children to pursue sports seriously, fostering a culture of physical fitness, discipline, and competitive spirit. Her silver medal win is a testament to her hard work, the guidance provided by her coaches, and the supportive environment created by her school and family.

In conclusion, Shivani Thapa’s silver medal at the National Kyorugi Taekwondo Championship represents more than just individual achievement. It signifies the emerging prominence of Sikkim in national-level sports, the importance of early training, and the potential of young athletes to excel on a broader stage. Her journey reflects the combination of talent, discipline, and mentorship, serving as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a source of pride for the state. Through her achievement, Shivani has not only made her school and state proud but also highlighted the importance of supportive training environments and opportunities for young sports enthusiasts. Her success reinforces the notion that age is no barrier to excellence when combined with passion, commitment, and guidance.