The Gholam siblings make PTVEMS proud

Kavya Gholam and Bhagya Gholam of PTVEMS (Secondary) won bronze medals at the 13th Silent Knight Karate Cup 2024, which took place in Malaysia from March 8 to 10. It saw participation of 700 representatives from 25 nations. School Headboy, Anurag Chapekar, and Headgirl, Sannidhi Nair interviewed Kavya and Bhagya.

1) How was your experience of playing the international competition?

Kavya → It was a tough task to compete against the representatives of 25 countries but I had attended a competition in Nepal which involved 15 countries. So, I had the experience which helped me a lot. This competition was a good example of team efforts and individual efforts. By the 7th round, I was a bit exhausted but I played for bronze in the end and won it. It was a memorable moment.

2) Did you face any notable challenges or obstacles during the competition?

Bhagya →- I encountered the challenge of adapting to diverse opponent styles and managing nerves in the high-pressure environment.

3) How did the selection process work and what was your reaction when you found out you were chosen?

Kavya →They mainly checked our past performances in the last year's national competitions and I think I qualified due to my good performance since last year. I, along with my coaches, teachers and parents were all proud that I was selected for the competition.

4) Could you tell us about how your coaches Arvind Chavan and Vaibhavali Saple

supported you during the tournament?

Bhagya → – My coaches, Arvind Chavan and Vaibhavali Saple, provided crucial support during the tournament, offering guidance and motivation. Their expertise and encouragement were greatly instrumental in our success.

5) How did you feel while representing India in the 13 th Silent Knight Karate Cup, 2024?

Kavya →Playing in the Indian jersey is a great achievement. I was the youngest in the whole Maharashtra team which gave me a great feeling.

6) How did you train for the competition?

Bhagya →Leading up to the competition, training involved daily sessions focusing on technique, strength and stamina. Mental preparation through visualization and meditation was also crucial for good performance.

7) How did it feel winning the Bronze medal for India?

Kavya → I had promised my Aai (mother) that I would bring a medal in the competition. When I lost in the first round, I was very upset and nearly cried in the stadium. But our friends, coaches and Bhagya Dada (Elder brother) boosted my morale and I worked very hard performed well in another round and won bronze. I was the happiest person in the stadium and the whole team lifted me up.

8) Can you tell us about your superior performance during the competition?

Bhagya →I performed well in the competition, winning matches decisively and impressing the judges with my skills. After nine rounds, I was very exhausted but I fought the next match and won the bronze medal for my country.

9) How did you prepare mentally for such a high-pressure international tournament?

Kavya → The credit goes to my coaches Arvind Sir and Vaibhavali Tai – my teachers who always pepped me up after every tournament as well as my parents who always encouraged me to participate in such competitions. Above all, my Aai (mom) who always tells me that she is confident that I would win.

10) How do you strike a balance between academics and sports?

Bhagya →Balancing academics and sports demands effective time management techniques and clear communication with teachers and coaches. They offered me their best help to attend my coaching and school.

11) What goals or aspirations do you have for your future?

Kavya → I want to represent India in the Olympics.