Yamiatul Listina Secures Medal After Choosing Sambo

Choosing Sambo for a New Challenge

For Yamiatul Listina, the journey to the podium at the 2025 Kudus Martial Arts PON is about more than just a medal. The West Sumatra-born athlete has embarked on a new chapter in her martial arts career after transitioning from judo to sambo.

The Gadih Minang surprised many by securing a bronze medal in her debut at a major event like the 2025 Kudus Martial Arts PON. Few expected that sambo would lead her to the podium.

"I started in judo, competing continuously from seventh grade through my university years," said Yamiatul at the Djarum Arena in Kudus last week.

For years, judo was Yamiatul's specialty. However, in 2024, she ventured into sambo, the Russian-born martial art.

Yamiatul competed in the women's -50 kg division. Despite only having one year to adapt to techniques and rules that differ from judo, she delivered a solid performance.

"I moved from judo to sambo because I had been in judo for so long and wanted to try something new. It felt like a fresh challenge for me," she explained.

For her, the decision to try sambo was not merely a whim but a result of curiosity and a drive for growth. She acknowledges that while sambo shares similarities with judo, it demands greater agility, speed, and specialized throwing techniques.

"My debut in sambo was at the Bandung Open, where I began to feel comfortable. Then I got the opportunity to join the PON, and the result was quite rewarding," said the student from the Indonesia University of Education (UPI) in Bandung.

Although she lacks international competitive experience, Yamiatul is keeping her options open. She continues to refine her skills in the sport.

She is actively seeking opportunities to participate in regional and national tournaments. At the very least, the bronze medal has given the 20-year-old the confidence to pursue further success.

"My next target is definitely gold in the upcoming championships," she said optimistically. (Gerry Putra)

_{source: www.ponbeladiri.com}