Chandigarh Judokas Shine with Double Gold at National School Games
Two talented judokas from Chandigarh have made their city proud by securing gold medals at the prestigious 69th SGFI U-19 School Games, currently underway in Delhi from February 1 to 4. The young athletes delivered outstanding performances, showcasing their skill and determination on the national stage.
Aarti's Historic First National Title in -48kg Category
Seventeen-year-old Aarti achieved a remarkable milestone by clinching the gold medal in the -48 kg category, marking her very first national title. Her journey to the top was characterized by a series of impressive bouts that demonstrated her growing prowess in the sport.
In a particularly notable semifinal match, Aarti faced Gujarat's Rahi, a formidable opponent ranked world number five and a three-time Asian gold medalist. Displaying exceptional technique and composure, Aarti executed a perfect hold-down move to secure victory against this highly decorated rival.
She repeated this successful technique in the final round, overcoming her Delhi opponent to claim the championship and secure the top podium finish. This victory represents a significant breakthrough in Aarti's young career and sets a promising foundation for her future in competitive judo.
Kapil Damai's Second National Gold in 20 Days
In the -60 kg category, eighteen-year-old Kapil Damai continued his impressive winning streak by securing the gold medal. This achievement marks his second national title in just twenty days, highlighting his exceptional form and consistency at the highest level of junior competition.
Kapil had previously demonstrated his championship caliber by winning the title at the Junior National Judo Championship 2025-26 held in Kolkata. His back-to-back national victories underscore his dedication to the sport and his ability to perform under pressure in different competitive environments.
Strong Support System Behind the Champions
The Chandigarh contingent at the games was accompanied by team official Jyotsna, who serves as a teacher with the UT education department and brings valuable experience as a former national champion herself. Her guidance and mentorship undoubtedly contributed to the athletes' success.
Both gold medalists train under the expert supervision of international coach Vivek Thakur at the Sector 34 Sports Complex in Chandigarh. This training facility has become a hub for developing judo talent in the region, providing athletes with access to world-class coaching and infrastructure.
Coach Thakur Attributes Success to Discipline and Preparation
Coach Vivek Thakur expressed pride in his students' accomplishments, noting that the results directly reflect their disciplined preparation and exposure to high-level training methods. "The athletes have shown tremendous commitment to their training regimen," Thakur commented. "Their success at the SGFI Games demonstrates how proper preparation and quality coaching can help young judokas compete effectively against top national talent."
The double gold medal performance at the 69th SGFI U-19 School Games represents a significant achievement for Chandigarh's judo program and highlights the city's growing reputation as a center for developing young sporting talent. These victories will likely inspire other aspiring athletes in the region while providing valuable momentum for Aarti and Kapil as they continue their competitive journeys in the sport of judo.
