Goodluck Njoku, a karate athlete from Anambra State, clinched a gold medal in the 50kg boys’ karate event at the ongoing National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State. Njoku’s victory came after he defeated Joshua Ehiozubue from Lagos State with a commanding score of 7-0 points on Friday.
The newly crowned champion, competing in the 50kg category, shared that he works at a bakery to support himself and to stay away from negative influences. At just 13 years old, Njoku recounted that he stumbled upon karate when he was on his way to work, where he met Sensei Godwin Okoro, who introduced him to the sport. This Youth Games marks his debut on the competitive stage.
Njoku expressed his determination not to let his state down in future national championships, emphasizing that this is just the beginning of his journey in karate. He expressed gratitude to God for his achievements and acknowledged that despite being the shortest in his category, he managed to secure the gold medal.
He explained his commitment to hard work by revealing that during school holidays, he puts in extra hours at the bakery to support himself and assist his parents financially. Njoku attends Okpoko Community Primary School and remains dedicated to both his education and karate training. He credited Sensei Godwin Okoro for recognizing his potential and giving him the opportunity to excel in the sport.
