Odisha Karate Girl Alisha Wins Historic Asian Cadet Bronze

Bhubaneswar: Odisha girl Alisha Subudhi created history by winning the first-ever bronze medal for India in the cadet kata event of the 22nd Asian Cadet, Junior & U-21 Karate Championship at Philsports Multi-Purpose Arena in Manila, Philippines on Friday.

The 14-year-old Bhubaneswar girl triumphed over formidable opponents from 17 countries, including notable wins against opponents from Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, to reach the victory podium. This was the second international medal of the year for Alisha, who bagged the cadet gold at the 8th South Asian Karate Championship last month in Thimpu, Bhutan.

Standard IX student of BJEM School-2, Alisha trains under the guidance of eminent women karateka Valenna Valentina. Daughter of Prasanta Kumar Subudhi of Sishupalgarh, Alisha also has the reputation of winning one gold medal each in sub-junior and cadet categories of the National Karate Championships.

Indian karate fraternity, including Karate India Organisation (KIO) president Bharat Sharma and secretary Sanjeev Kumar Jangra congratulated Alisha for historic achievement at the ongoing Asian Championship. KIO also presented her a cash award of Rs 50,000.

While expressing her joy for the maiden Asian medal, Alisha thanked the office-bearers of KIO, coaches, mentors, Odisha State Karate-Do Association, her parents and the Government of Odisha for their help, support and guidance.

“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude as I share this historic moment with all of you. Your collective efforts have made this achievement possible, and I am forever grateful. Thank you for helping me to create history for India! I look forward to many more victories together,’’ said Alisha.