Kargil: Rinchen Youdol, an exceptional Para Taekwondo athlete from Ladakh, has made history by winning a Bronze Medal at the 1st World Para Poomsae Taekwondo Championships in Bahrain.
She has not only brought laurels to her home region of Kargil, UT Ladakh but also elevated India’s stature on the global stage, captivating thousands of spectators at this ground breaking international event.
Rinchen Youdol, daughter of Morup Dorjey and Stanzin Angmo from Village Bodhkharboo, District Kargil, UT Ladakh, has achieved a significant milestone, bringing immense pride to both Ladakh and India.
This prestigious championship, held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee, witnessed participation from 140 athletes representing 23 countries across five continents.
Competing in one of the most challenging categories, Rinchen participated in the Senior Female Contestants (No Age Bar) division against top international athletes including Janine Watson (Australia), Jane Bedford (Great Britain), and Eleni Nestora (Greece).
Demonstrating extraordinary perseverance and skill, Rinchen secured a well-deserved Bronze Medal, becoming the first-ever athlete from Ladakh to achieve such recognition at an international Para Taekwondo championship.
The competition commenced with a grand opening ceremony featuring a parade of nations, speeches by dignitaries and a heartfelt address from World Taekwondo President, Dr. Chungwon Choue, emphasizing the rising significance of Para Taekwondo Poomsae and its journey toward inclusion in the LA 2028 Paralympic Games.
Rinchen’s historic win exemplifies her unwavering dedication and commitment. Sharing her emotions after the victory, she stated, “It feels surreal. This was my first international championship, and representing Ladakh and India on such a grand stage has been an honor. Most people dream but don’t put in the effort—I did. This moment is the result of years of hard work and discipline. My dream, born when I was just 10 years old, has finally become a reality.”
Rinchen extended her heartfelt gratitude to Brig (Dr.) B.D Mishra, Lt. Governor, UT Ladakh; Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, CEC, LAHDC, Kargil; Advocate Tashi Gyalson, CEC, LAHDC, Leh; Muhammad Haneefa Jan, Member of Parliament, Ladakh; Vikram Singh Malik, Secretary, Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh; Tahir Hussain Zubdavi, Director, Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh; Abid Hussain, DYSSO, Kargil; Ghulam Mustafa, President, Para Poomsae Taekwondo Ladakh; Sayed Mehraj-id-Din, President, Cerebral Palsy Society of Ladakh; Anayat Shoto, General Secretary, Ladakh Taekwondo Association and other officer and officials for their constant support and encouragement.
“Without their kind support and guidance, I wouldn’t have been able to participate in such an international-level tournament. Their belief in me and encouragement have been instrumental in achieving this milestone,” Rinchen said.
The event saw remarkable performances from athletes representing nations like Croatia, Greece, Morocco, Colombia, Singapore, and Iraq, all showcasing exceptional talent. Rinchen’s achievement added to India’s pride, placing the nation among the top-performing countries.
The 1st World Para Poomsae Taekwondo Championships was not only a significant competitive platform but also a celebration of inclusivity and unity.
The success of the championship owes much to the visionary leadership of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee and the tireless efforts of its organizing team.
Rinchen’s remarkable feat has inspired countless aspiring athletes across Ladakh and India, proving that with determination and hard work, even the loftiest dreams can be realized.
Her victory is a proud moment for UT Ladakh and the nation, marking a new chapter in the history of Indian Para Taekwondo.
