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GOLDEN GLORY FOR KARATE KID

June 3 - 9, 2009
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Gulf Weekly GOLDEN GLORY FOR KARATE KID

Gulf Weekly Mai Al Khatib-Camille
By Mai Al Khatib-Camille

Karate kid Sidhant Shivram has become the golden boy of martial arts with a series of high-flying competition successes.

The 12-year-old black belt began his training at the age of five with his older brother Shiben, now aged 18, at the Konkan Singers Club in Manama and hasn't looked back.

What began as a hobby has now developed into a passion for martial arts, thanks to the backing of his teacher and mentor, Mehajoob Ambalath.

Mr Ambalath, known in the sport as a sensei, said: "Sidhant is one of the best students that I have ever had the honour of training. He has always been an enthusiastic child and a fast learner with the ability of becoming the best fighter."

Sidhant, from Manama, who attends The Indian School, recently impressed the judges at a karate tournament organised by the Isa Town Club held at its indoor stadium. The youngster produced 'outstanding' performances in the disciplines of kata and kumite in the 12 to 15 age group winning the gold in kata and silver in kumite. Although he was not as big as many of his opponents, Sidhant managed to put on an impressive show.

Kata and kumite are two styles of fighting which are tested during tournaments and come under the umbrella of the World Karate Federation (WFK) rules.

The kata (Japanese for form or pattern) is an exercise where the trainee repeatedly tries to emulate a master. It is a sequence of basic moves (kicks, blocks, punches, and so on), strung together in a way that makes sense. There are about 100 hidden techniques and requires hours of practice to properly perform.

The kumite tests the fighting skills of the student. Again, the fighter can only gain these skills through practice, presence of mind, stamina, speed and self confidence. All aspects are essential in order to win a competition.

Sidhant said: "Karate is self-defence without the use of weapons. I thought it would be useful to learn as I got older.

"I enjoy competing. I always get a spirit about me when I compete, I feel alive. I practice at least twice a week in the class and at home.

"I prefer kumite to kata and my most memorable fight was at this month's tournament. One of my opponents in particular was a lot larger than me and stronger but I still managed to defeat him and that made me feel good.

"My sensei and parents are the reason I have progressed this far in karate and I would love to take it further, maybe become a sensei myself, or compete in the Olympics."

According to Mr Ambalath the starlet could have an 'amazing future in karate' with the right opportunities, although they may be limited on such a small island.

However, the youngster has other dreams in mind, if his martial arts ambitions are curtailed. Sidhnat said: "I love karate but I also really want to become a Formula One driver or perhaps join the military. I am a big fan of Jano Trulli and would love to race for Toyota!"

Proud mother Indira Shivram, 45, personal assistant at AXA Insurance, said: "I am thrilled for my son and extremely proud of his achievements."

Mum and dad, Shivram Poojary, 51, who works in human resources and administration at Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, are both full of praise for Sidhant's sensei who they say has encouraged their son to work hard and develop his skills.







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