This Jalandhar-based bairn secured 2nd position in kickboxing at 13th District Jalandhar Kickboxing Championship

Winning accolades during my young days at school makes for cherished memorabilia. This eight-year-old has already written his first chapter of success on the account. Meet Harkunwar Singh Dhuper, a class III student at Apeejay School, Tanda Road who is at present, basking under his prestigious victory at the district level. Being constantly motivated by his teachers at school and mother at home, this young one wants to carry forward the legacy of this sport at all levels.

Till then he is busy celebrating his success by making reels on social media and sharing amongst my friends and family

Excerpts from the interview.

 Who is your inspiration?

I have been greatly inspired by my school PT teacher Yadvinder sir. I participated in a kickboxing match for the first time at school, thereon I started enjoying the sport and learnt the tactics of the game deeply.

 Describe your practice regime.

I practice this sport mostly at school during the games period daily. We have a one-hour PT period during which I practice along with my sir and keep learning the game.

 Any special food you eat?

Fruits, dry fruits, and vegetables are my go-to food for good health. My favourite fruits are grapes, watermelon, strawberries, oranges, and mangoes. I don’t eat junk food because it only spoils my health.

 How do you balance studies and practice?

I follow a much-disciplined timetable to manage both my studies and kickboxing. During morning hours I am prioritising my school and studies and after that, I focus on kickboxing practice completely.

 How has the school helped hone the skills in this sport?

My teachers have been extremely supportive of me. To participate in a district-level championship I had to work extra hard to learn and master kickboxing, it was during this phase that my teachers never put any undue pressure on me regarding my studies. They always encouraged me to go ahead and pursue this sport at higher levels. Even my coach Yadvinder Sir is making me a master at this sport by honing my skills in kicks and punches.

 Were your parents supportive?

I was brought up by a single parent, my mother. She believes in motivating me in everything I like to do. For now, my mother is pushing me to perform well in kickboxing pick up on the game nuances faster, and learn its finer points.

 Has kickboxing impacted you positively?

Yes. I derive a lot of motivation from this sport. I feel an urge from within to compete and excel in more things in life. Kickboxing has made me realise my worth and the fact that I am capable of achieving so much more in life. After winning the district championship, my confidence level has gone up 10-fold.