By Haris Ahmad
PESHAWAR: Pakistan’s ITF Taekwondo team delivered an outstanding performance at the International Taekwondo Championship held in Kabul, Afghanistan, clinching four gold and two silver medals and bringing pride to the nation. The players also participated in a technical instructor course, where their discipline and exceptional skills impressed Grandmaster Yon De Huang of DPR Korea, who lauded the Pakistani contingent for their commitment and talent.
On their return to Peshawar, the national team received a warm and grand welcome at the Hayatabad Sports Complex by Administrator Abid Nazim, Chairman of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ITF Association Naveed Habibi, and several players who showered them with flower petals and garlands.
The championship and instructor course were supervised by Grandmaster Yon De Huang, one of the most respected figures in the Taekwondo world. Competing against strong international contenders, Pakistan’s athletes proved their mettle. Ajmal Khan, Muhammad Rehmani, and Shahzad Afridi bagged gold medals in their respective weight categories through stellar performances, while Idrees Adil and Hashim Afridi fought valiantly to secure one silver medal each.
Impressed by the team’s performance and discipline, Grandmaster Yon De Huang awarded an honorary gold medal to Zakir Afridi, the chief organizer of Pakistan ITF. The Pakistani delegation was led by Pakistan ITF President Rana Sadaqat Ali, accompanied by KP ITF General Secretary Ajmal Afridi.
Speaking to the media, Naveed Habibi, Chairman of KP ITF Taekwondo Association, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating:
This is an important opportunity for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s black belt athletes to enhance their coaching abilities and further polish their skills under the supervision of one of Korea’s greatest Grandmasters. Their performance in both the championship and instructor course is truly commendable.
He added that such accomplishments are not only a matter of pride for Pakistan’s martial arts community but also a great honor for the entire nation.
Edited by Ms. Sumaya Ahmad (Reporter / sub-Editor
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