MUSCAT: UMAI Oman Karate and Kung Fu team made history by winning three gold medals, a silver medal, and a bronze medal at the United Martial Arts Academy International (UMAI) Karate Championship held in Doha, Qatar recently.
In a competition that featured over 300 participants, Turki bin Mansoor al Hinai and Rayan Varghese clinched gold medals in the Kumite category, while Ahmad Sinan secured a silver medal.
In the Kata category, Rayan Varghese added another gold medal to his tally in the below 55 kg category, and Turki bin Mansoor al Hinai earned a bronze medal in the below 25 kg category. The Oman team was led by Rashik Edakkandi and Farvesh, demonstrating exceptional performance.
Turki bin Mansoor al Hinai is a student of Jamila bint Thabit School, Maabela, while Rayan Varghese and Ahmad Sinan, aged eight, are students of Indian School Al Maabela (ISAM).
Rayan, aged 12 years and a sixth-standard student, said: “Despite the initial anxieties of stepping into the ring for the first time, the championship experience proved transformative. Winning the opening bout boosted my confidence, motivating me to push further. The Doha championship not only marked a milestone in my journey but also provided invaluable experience that will shape my future in the sport.”
The championship was guided by UMAI Grand Master Sifu Dr Arif C P Palazhi and Technical Director Shihan Noushad K Mannoli, who played key roles in the team's success.
The event was graced by distinguished chief guests, including Captain Sameer Hassanain, Chairman of the Qatar Karate Federation Referee Commission, Mansoor al Hinai, and Khalood bin Nasser al Shamsi.
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