UNAIR NEWS — Students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), representing the university’s Karate student club (UKM Karate), recorded another impressive accomplishment this year. At the Sebelas Maret Open II International Karate Championship 2025, held from Friday (Oct 31, 2025) to Sunday (Nov 2, 2025) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), the UNAIR team delivered a standout performance. They earned 27 medals in total: 12 gold, 14 silver, and 1 bronze.

UNAIR Karate Club Head Gita Damayanti expressed her appreciation for the team’s outstanding results. She explained that the achievement reflects months of preparation that began at the start of the Fall 2025 semester.

“We’ve been training intensively since the beginning of the semester. Every week, we set aside time to practice, even while juggling classes and other campus responsibilities. Our training focused not only on technique but also on reinforcing teamwork and physical stamina,” Damayanti said.

Kata and kumite divisions

The event brought together participants from universities across Indonesia and abroad, including teams from Central Africa. It featured both individual and team categories within the two main karate disciplines: kata (forms) and kumite (sparring).

Damayanti noted that kata competitors are evaluated based on the precision of their movements, technical accuracy, and the demonstration of power and control. In kumite, judges assess striking technique, speed, and competitive strategy. “In kata, reaching the finals can require up to five rounds, each performed with a different routine,” she explained.

Unity and collaboration

Alongside technical proficiency, team cohesion played a major role in UNAIR’s success. Damayanti emphasized that the athletes continuously supported each other, especially during moments of fatigue or competitive pressure. “We always back one another up. When someone is tired, the rest of the team steps in to help and motivate them. That’s what kept us strong from start to finish,” she added.

The delegation was composed of students from multiple class years, including first-year members still completing their apprenticeship period in UKM Karate. This blend reflects the unit’s commitment to regeneration and sustained athlete development.

Despite their success, Damayanti also highlighted the challenges of balancing academic life with rigorous training. “As students living independently, we have to manage our time carefully. Maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and keeping up with coursework all require discipline. Proper rest and nutrition are essential because our physical condition must always be optimal,” she said. She regularly reminds teammates to complete assignments early, a key habit for effective time management.

Author: Rizma Elyza

Editor: Yulia Rohmawati