Kudus Karateka Muhammad Dzaka Wins Bronze Medal

A sweet debut in a fantastic event

Young karateka from Kudus, Muhammad Dzaka Hibatullah, successfully secured a bronze medal for the Central Java contingent at the HYDROPLUS Soccer League All Stars 2025/2026.

Competing in the men's -75kg kumite category at Djarum Arena 2A, Kaliputu, Kudus, Central Java, last Thursday (10/23), Dzaka showed confidence from the preliminary rounds. However, his journey ended in the semifinals after facing national training center athlete Ignatius Joshua Kandou of East Java.

Although he missed a spot in the final, Dzaka's achievement remains a source of pride for himself, his family, and the people of Kudus.

"I am very grateful and happy; this is my debut representing Central Java at the National Sports Week (PON). While it is only a bronze, it is my best result," a cheerful Dzaka said after the match.

A Sweet Debut on Home Turf

Competing in front of a home crowd provided extra motivation for the young karateka, who noted that he had been preparing for tough opponents throughout the warm-up phase.

"The opponents were clearly strong from the start. My coach instructed me to stay calm and enjoy the match to perform at my maximum potential," he said.

He acknowledged that his toughest challenge came from the East Java team, which consists of national squad athletes. "I hope to break into the national training center in the future," he added.

Dzaka also praised the organization of the karate competition at the Martial Arts PON. "The venue is excellent, cool, and comfortable, with a spacious warm-up area, which gave athletes enough room to prepare," he said.

Mother's Support is Key

In the stands, his mother, Bibit, faithfully cheered him on from the start. She expressed her pride in seeing her son compete against more senior karatekas.

"I am so proud. He is a beginner in this class, while the others are all senior athletes. He did a good job keeping up with Joshua. This is a very valuable experience for him," Bibit said with glowing eyes.

She noted that their personal expectations were realistic. "From the beginning, I thought gold might be out of reach, perhaps silver or bronze. Getting bronze is extraordinary for a beginner," she said with a smile.

A Message for the Youth of Kudus

Dzaka hopes his achievement will inspire other youths in Kudus to pursue martial arts.

"To all martial arts athletes from Kudus, have the courage to strive for achievements. Beyond health, it is a way to make your parents proud," he advised.

With this achievement, Muhammad Dzaka Hibatullah returns home not only with a medal but also with new hope for fostering young karate talent from the region of Kudus. (Daniel Tanamal)

_{Source: ponbeladiri.com}