Exceptional performances earn Maryam, 6, four medals

Six-year-old Maryam Nurani of Rochdale landed four medals in the Eastern Region Martial Arts Competition in Norwich on Sunday (2 April).

Despite being the youngest in all her categories, Maryam won a gold, two silvers and a bronze after facing bigger and stronger opponents.

The Dojo Karate Centre student won gold in the eight-years kata and bronze in eight-years kumite. The silvers in eight-years weapons kata and 10-years kata both went to sudden death for the gold, which Maryam narrowly missed out on due to a 3-2 judges’ decision.

 

 

Head coach Sensei Irfan Ansari said: "She has come on leaps and bounds lately and while we still have lots to prepare before the World Championships in late July 2023, this is a brilliant result and a confidence booster for Maryam.

“Now she knows what she is capable of, she can focus more on perfecting her performance for the World Championship.

“Maryam was the only person to represent Dojo Karate Centre this time as the event was far away, but she was an excellent ambassador for the Dojo Karate Centre and Rochdale.

“Well done Maryam; we are so proud of your achievement."

 

 

Maryam’s mum Zabina said: “The work and effort Maryam puts into everything she does shows me what a brilliant character she is developing; she is determined to achieve and isn't afraid of a challenge. With the correct guidance and support, Maryam is preparing herself well for the World Championships in America.”

Maryam explained how she felt about the training and winning medals, saying: "I enjoy training and sometimes I even practise at break time on the school playground.

“I am really happy I won medals and thankful to everyone at the Dojo Karate Centre who has helped me, especially my teacher Sensei Ansari.”

Maryam will be competing at the World Championships in July 2023 at the Ocean Centre in Daytona, Florida.