A GROUP of young and dedicated karate exponents from Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) in Penang have proven their mettle by clinching top honors at the recent national and international tournaments, including the Korean Open, SUKMA, and ASEAN University Games.

Their remarkable achievements were further recognized when the team received the Promising Female Athlete and Best Men’s Team awards.

The Promising Female Athlete award went to Fang Ruoping, 21, who expressed her gratitude for the recognition.

“I did not expect to receive this recognition, especially at this stage. However, I am thankful to the Penang State Sports Council for valuing my hard work,” she said.

Fang, who has shown exceptional dedication to the sport, pledged to continue improving and achieving more in the future.

The Best Men’s Team award was presented to Dennis Lim Kai Xiang, Song Chan Zhen, and Yee Ming Qi for their outstanding performances on the international stage.

Kai Xiang, 22, a first-year International Business student, helped secure a gold medal in the Team Kata event at both the 2024 Korean Open and the ASEAN University Games. A bronze medallist in 2022, he credited his success to consistent training and strict discipline.

“I didn’t expect to win, but I go into every tournament aiming to give my best. It’s not easy, but with strict discipline and a never-give-up attitude, we keep pushing forward,” said Kai Xiang, who has trained in karate for 15 years.

Chan Zhen, 22, an Information Technology student, captured gold in both individual and team events at the SUKMA Games in Sarawak. Having picked up karate at the age of eight, he said the sport has instilled mental endurance, respect, and teamwork.

“I’m grateful to my senseis for their sacrifices. Without their guidance, none of this would be possible,” he said.

Ming Qi, 21, a Business Administration student, has competed in two SUKMA Games. After an early loss in 2022, he bounced back in 2023 to win gold in the Team Kata event.

“We learned how to cooperate and push through together. I watch videos of my performances repeatedly to fix mistakes. That’s how we grow,” he shared.

Former student and top karate exponent Yong Kojiro, 24, who now works in the surface mount technology industry, was also highlighted as an inspiration. A nominee for the national sports award in 2017 and 2018, Kojiro previously won bronze at the World Karate Championships in Spain in the Team Kata category.

“I’m happy for the team. Consistency is key, and I hope to one day return and contribute to the juniors,” said Kojiro.

The athletes credited their success to the guidance of Sensei Ku Jin Keat and Sensei Lim Lee Lee, the unwavering support of their parents, and the encouragement of the TAR UMT community.

Despite balancing demanding studies with three-hour daily training sessions, the team remains committed to pushing their limits and striving for greater excellence in the future.

Story by Edmund Lee Pix by Siew Chia En