Chennai: Aim high they say. It is something that K S Naveen took to his heart dearly, for he is all set to take part at the Olympics to be held at Tokyo next year.
The class 11 student recently bagged the bronze medal at a national-level karate meet that was held in Punjab last week and with it, raised his ratings to qualify for the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet.
The 17-year-old resides at Medavakkam Main Road and News Today had a chat with him and his coach, Narayanan about his achievements and future goals.
Before the youngster spoke, out came words from his coach. Having trained Naveen for three years, Narayanan was eager to speak about how proud he is of Naveen’s achievement. “I have trained many students so far. Yet, I have not met a person who’s not only good in Karate, but also has the zeal,” he said.
For Naveen, the achievement feels like his very first win. “It is a stepping stone to success. I have won gold 15 times at district-level events, five times at State-level championships and I try to give my best at every practice session I take part in and at every competition,” said the teenager.
“My only target is Olympics. I will take part for India and win a gold at the Olympics,” said Naveen.
Revealing his success secret, Naveen said, “Practice makes a man perfect. I practice twice a day all the while going to school and not missing out on NEET classes during weekends. I believe that proper training, encouragement and routine practice gave me the Olympics opportunity.”
About his NEET coaching classes, the karate champ wants to become a doctor and do his bit for the society.
“My family, friends and masters, Narayanan, Kanagaraj and Kamaraj are so supportive. I think nothing would have been possible without their support,” he said.
Like at the start of the conversation, Narayanan, the coach, was the one to conclude, saying, “For all the efforts Naveen has made, he is now beginning to yield the fruit. All he has to do is pass NEET. I believe in him, he will come out with flying colours.”
Naveen can be reached at 9884898253.