Double delight: Odisha taekwondo star scripts national glory by winning gold and silver

Odisha taekwondo star Bhabesh Dixit from Saudu village under Bahanaga block in Balasore district has brought laurels for the district and the State by winning a gold and a silver medal in a recently-concluded national-level competition in Rajasthan.

Apart from his studies, Bhabesh, who is a Plus 2 student at Fakir Mohan Higher Secondary School, has been pursuing taekwondo since his childhood. He started his training in taekwondo from class V and took it like a duck takes to water.

With meticulous training of five to six hours on a daily basis, he has come a long way. He has won many medals in various State and National level competitions. Buoyed by his success in the recently concluded national level competition, Bhabesh has now set his eyes on the Olympics which happens to be the biggest sports extravaganza in the world.

The emerging taekwondo star’s father Harishandra Dixit is a teacher in his village school. His parents are the main source of inspiration for Bhabesh.

Despite the humble background, financial constraints, and many other obstacles, Bhabesh’s fighting spirit and success story have inspired all and sundry in his locality.

Reflecting on his success, Bhabesh said, “After winning a gold medal in the state-level competition in Puri, I was selected for the National Level competition in Rajasthan. I am very happy to win two medals in the competition amid a tough fight.”

“Apart from my studies, I practice taekwondo for two to three hours every day in the morning and evening. My parents and teachers have helped me to balance my studies and sports in a great way,” he added.