RADHA SHARMA SHINES AT NATIONAL STAGE, WINS BRONZE FOR J&K IN SENIOR POOMSAE TAEKWONDO CHAMPIONSHIP

In a remarkable display of discipline, determination, and sporting excellence, Radha Sharma of Shield Taekwondo Academy, District Doda, has brought immense pride to Jammu & Kashmir by clinching the Bronze Medal at the 14th National Senior Poomsae Taekwondo Championship 2025. The prestigious event, held in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, witnessed participation from top Taekwondo athletes across the country, making Radha’s achievement both commendable and inspirational.

The championship was organised by the Uttar Pradesh Taekwondo Association and the District Bareilly Taekwondo Association under the banner of the Taekwondo Federation of India. Competing at such a high-profile platform is no small feat, and Radha’s medal victory stands as a testament to her tireless hard work, consistency, and rising stature within the national Taekwondo circuit.

Hailing from the scenic Chenab region of District Doda, Radha has steadily made her mark in the field of martial arts, especially in Poomsae—an event that demands precision, balance, technique, and flawless execution. Her journey has been shaped not only by her dedication but also by the strong support system around her. She dedicated her historic win to her coach, Mr. Burhan Ud Din Khan, the Chief Coach of Shield Taekwondo Academy, acknowledging his role in refining her skills, strengthening her abilities, and guiding her through each challenge.

Under Coach Burhan’s mentorship, Shield Taekwondo Academy has emerged as a powerhouse of talent in District Doda, producing athletes who consistently perform at district, state, and national levels. Radha’s success adds another glorious chapter to the academy’s achievements and further highlights the potential of athletes emerging from remote and hilly regions of Jammu & Kashmir.

Radha’s medal is more than an individual accomplishment—it is a milestone for the Chenab Valley, where sporting opportunities are often limited due to geographical and infrastructural constraints. Her dedication has now become a source of motivation for hundreds of young girls in the region, proving that passion combined with perseverance can break barriers and create new paths.

Speaking about her win, Radha expressed deep gratitude to her academy, family, and supporters who stood by her throughout her journey. This Bronze Medal, she stated, is not just an honour but a stepping stone toward larger dreams. With her national-level success boosting her confidence, she now aims to represent India in international Taekwondo championships and bring global recognition to her hometown.

Her achievement was widely celebrated in District Doda. Mr. Junaid Ali Khan, President of the Taekwondo Association of District Doda, extended heartfelt congratulations to Radha Sharma, her coach, and the entire team. He praised her extraordinary performance and emphasized that such accomplishments showcase the hidden potential of youth in Doda district. He added that Radha’s success would encourage more children, especially girls, to take up martial arts as a sport and pursue it seriously.

The rising talent in sports from rural and remote areas of Jammu & Kashmir speaks of a new era where athletes are breaking through challenges and proving their mettle on national platforms. Radha Sharma’s achievement at the 14th National Senior Poomsae Taekwondo Championship is an inspiring reminder that determination, discipline, and the right guidance can turn aspirations into achievements.

As Radha continues to train with renewed dedication and ambition, the entire region looks forward to witnessing her future successes—possibly on the international stage. Her journey stands as a beacon of hope, empowering the next generation of athletes from J&K to dream big and pursue excellence with confidence.