Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Goa team produced a dominant all round performance to secure first place at the 26th National Sqay Martial Arts Championship 2025–26, held in Hyderabad, reaffirming the state’s growing stature in the discipline at the national level. The title win was marked by technical excellence, disciplined execution and a strong competitive spirit across multiple categories.
Goa’s athletes delivered a consistent medal winning display throughout the championship, finishing with an impressive total of 13 medals. The overall tally included eight gold, two silver and three bronze medals, highlighting the team’s depth and ability to perform under pressure against strong competition from across the country.
Radhika Yallappa Hosmani emerged as one of the standout performers for Goa, leading the medal count with two gold medals and one silver. Shrushti Suraj Benaknall also played a crucial role in the team’s success, matching Hosmani’s haul with two gold medals and one silver. Their performances provided early momentum and set the tone for the team’s overall campaign.
Several other athletes made significant contributions to Goa’s top finish. Siddhi Umesh Ravi, Harsha Vinayak Desai, Shubham Dinesh Pal and Himanshu R Kaushal each claimed a gold medal in their respective events. Kaushal further strengthened Goa’s tally by adding a bronze medal. Bishal Hemant Kumar Giri and Ronak Milind Gaikwad also stepped onto the podium, winning one bronze medal each.
The team’s success was backed by strong leadership and structured preparation. The athletes competed under the guidance of Siddhesh Shripad Naik, president of the Sqay Federation of India, along with general secretary Anilkumar Pawar. Coaching and technical support were provided by Himanshu Rambabu Kaushal, who also served as a national referee. Their combined efforts were credited with ensuring disciplined training, strategic planning and confident execution during the championship.
Goa’s first place finish at the national championship has further enhanced the state’s reputation in sqay martial arts. The performance reflects the steady rise of young talent from the region and signals a promising future for Goa in upcoming national and international competitions.
