The Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA) recently organised the Gurdaspur District Karate Championship, aiming to wean youngsters away from drugs and encourage them to take up the sport as a safeguard against narcotics abuse.
The event, held at the Gymnasium Hall here, was attended by around 300 youngsters.
Ahead of the championship, karate coach Gurwant Singh conducted coaching classes. Boys were trained for a nominal fee, while girls received free training.
“The sport builds character and discipline. Karate is a martial art and combat sport focused on striking, kicking and defensive blocks. We have been training youngsters for several years now. Our boys and girls perform extraordinarily well in state championships. We aim to hold the tournament regularly so that youngsters remain connected with the sport,” the coach said.
Romesh Mahajan, a National Awardee, was the chief guest at the event.
Members of the audience were administered an oath pledging not to consume drugs, and not to allow their children to come into contact with narcotic substances.
The winners were presented with certificates.
Children seemed to take to the sport like fish to water.
One participant said: “I started practising karate instead of playing video games. It is rare for me to choose anything over video games. The training has made me stronger and healthier because I realised I had to eat nutritious food if I wanted my efforts to count. I have stopped eating fast food because I am now training to become a state champion.”
Coaches at the event cited his example to inspire other aspiring karate players.
