Pakistan Taekwondo Team Arrives in Indonesia for Asian Open Championship

LAHORE - The excitement is palpable as a 16-member Pakistan taekwondo squad has arrived in Indonesia to compete in the 6th Asian Open Kyorugi Taekwondo Championship. This prestigious event is scheduled to take place from October 15 to 18 at the Indore Stadium Sports Center in Tangerang. Athletes from over 275 participants across various Asian nations, including India, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Nepal, and the host country, Indonesia, will showcase their skills in this championship.

The Pakistan squad is composed of seven male and three female athletes, each ready to represent their country with pride. In the men’s category, the competitors include Haroon Khan (-58 kg), Numan Khan (-63 kg), Saud Alam (-63 kg), Muhammad Arbaz Khan (-68 kg), Mazhar Abbas (-80 kg), Ikhtsham-ul-Haq (-87 kg), and Hamza Omar Saeed (+87 kg). On the women’s side, Noor Rahman (-57 kg), Maleeha Ali (-73 kg), and Manisha Ali (+73 kg) will take to the mat.

Leading the team is Lt Col Zeeshan Aslam, with Master Yusuf Karami as the head coach. The management team also includes Syed Sadaqat Hussain as the manager and Faisal Nadeem Butt as the team physiotherapist. The athletes have already commenced their training at the indoor stadium, working diligently under the guidance of Coach Karami.

The team is optimistic about their performance, with Hamza Saeed (+87 kg) expressing confidence in their preparations. He stated, “We have put in a lot of hard work, and this competition will also provide valuable opportunities to learn from international coaches and athletes, which will benefit us in the future.” This sentiment reflects the dedication and commitment of the athletes as they gear up for the competition.

Female competitor Noor Rehman (-57 kg) also shared her determination, saying, “I won’t underestimate any opponent. My goal is to bring pride to Pakistan by winning medals in this prestigious event.” Her words resonate with the spirit of sportsmanship and the desire to excel on an international platform.

As the championship approaches, the athletes are not only focused on winning but also on gaining experience and learning from their peers. This event serves as a crucial opportunity for the Pakistani taekwondo team to showcase their skills and represent their nation on a larger stage. The journey of these athletes is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and passion for the sport. As they step onto the mat, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of a nation, aiming to make their mark in the world of taekwondo.