Konstantin (24), and Yanis (23), embarked on a thrilling journey to the Student World Championships in Nottingham. Despite Yanis's recent entry into the scene in May 2023, he swiftly ascended to become a formidable force in both disciplines. Remarkably, he clinched two gold medals in his individual categories and added a silver in the team event, captivating the audience with his exceptional skill.
On the first day of the competition, Yanis showcased his skills in the color belt competition, making a notable impression with his performance. Meanwhile, Konstantin awaited his turn in the black belt division, which took place the next day.
Yanis's prowess didn't go unnoticed, as several teams sought his participation in team sparring. Embracing the opportunity, he led his team to the final, even overpowering opponents much heavier than himself. However, an unfortunate incident occurred when his adversary, overwhelmed by frustration, resorted to a prohibited technique below the belt, resulting in Yanis's injury. The doctors estimated his recovery time to be around 10-12 weeks.
Despite the setback, Konstantin remained resolute in his mission to defend his title. Despite enduring numerous injuries and setbacks during his training, he made a valiant return. Though not fully healed, he managed to win a bronze medal before narrowly losing in the semi-finals. Despite the defeat, Konstantin reflected on his journey over the past seven months with a smile, grateful for the opportunity to return to the mats.
Prior to the competition, they stumbled upon TEK Team Elite Kickboxing, where they were graciously invited to observe their sessions. Impressed by the quality of training, they decided to return for a high-performance light-contact camp in August, eager to further hone their skills and techniques.
Konstantin and Yanis's journey at the world championships exemplifies resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in ITF Taekwon-Do.
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