Apeejay student clinches gold at State Kickboxing Championship

Bhav Aggarwal, a bright young talent hailing from Apeejay School, Tanda Road in Jalandhar, has recently made waves in the kickboxing circuit by clinching the gold medal. He bagged this honour in the 42 kg weight category of the Younger Cadets (10-12 years) age group at the 20th Punjab State Kickboxing Championship 2024-25. In an exclusive telephonic interview with Apeejay Newsroom, Bhav shares his journey, aspirations, and the invaluable support he receives from his school as well as family. Read edited excerpts:

Could you tell us about your journey into kickboxing?

I began my kickboxing journey at the age of 11, in 2023. It all started with some captivating videos on Facebook that sparked my interest. Watching those videos, I felt a strong conviction that kickboxing was something I could excel in.

Apart from kickboxing, do you engage in any other martial arts or sports?

Yes, indeed! I also practise taekwondo and wushu, exploring various disciplines to broaden my skills and knowledge.

Winning gold at the state level is a significant achievement. How did you feel when you clinched the gold medal?

Winning gold at the state championship was an incredible feeling. It was my first time securing the top spot, and the sense of accomplishment was unparallelled.

Balancing studies and training can be challenging. How do you manage your time effectively?

It’s all about effective time management. I stay back at school till 3 PM, then allocate an hour for rest before heading to tuition. My training sessions take place from 2 PM to 3 PM after school, ensuring I maintain a balance between academics and sports.

Who has been your biggest support system throughout your kickboxing journey?

Without a doubt, my coach and my parents have been my pillars of strength. Their unwavering support and encouragement have propelled me forward, especially during challenging times.

What are your aspirations for the future in kickboxing?

Currently, kickboxing is more of a hobby for me. While I haven’t thought about pursuing it professionally yet, witnessing my coach’s dedication and expertise continues to inspire me. Who knows what the future holds?

Also Read : ‘The first time I saw a kickboxing video, I felt it was my future’

How has Apeejay School, Tanda Road, contributed to your journey and development?

Apeejay School has played a crucial role in shaping my confidence and providing a conducive environment for holistic growth. The school’s encouragement through medals and certificates during assemblies has boosted my morale significantly.

Lastly, what inspires you the most in your kickboxing journey?

My coach’s actions and dedication serve as a constant source of inspiration for me. Witnessing him push boundaries and achieve greatness motivates me to strive for excellence every day.