Indian Contingent Gains Valuable International Experience at the World Savate Championship in France

Indian Contingent Led by Mr. Navjot Barjot ( International Judge and Referee) with Bhupendra Shivaji Gaikwad as Coach; Aditya Khandizod and Rishav Sharma Deliver Competitive Performances on the World Stage in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France

The Indian contingent proudly represented India at the World Savate Championship held at the Palais des Sports in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France. The Indian team comprised Head of Delegation Mr. Navjot Barjot, Coach Mr. Bhupendra Shivaji Gaikwad, representing the Savate India Association, and two athletes, Aditya Khandizod and Rishav Sharma.

For the coach and both athletes, the championship marked their first World Championship experience. Representing India at such a prestigious international event was a moment of immense pride and an important milestone in their sporting journeys.

The Indian contingent competed against experienced international athletes, gaining valuable exposure to the technical standards, competitive intensity, and professional environment of world-level Savate.

A Major International Sporting Event

The championship brought together more than 200 athletes from over 43 countries, including France, Germany, Great Britain, Croatia, Algeria, Canada, Japan, China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Serbia, Senegal, Bulgaria, Iran, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Morocco, Australia, Nepal, Congo, Slovenia, India, and other nations.

The event provided a platform for athletes to demonstrate their technical ability, speed, power, tactical awareness, physical fitness, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Competing against athletes with extensive international experience offered important lessons for future international competitions.

World-Class Championship Organisation

The championship was conducted at the Palais des Sports in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France. The event featured professionally managed competition areas, athlete weigh-ins, safety arrangements, medical facilities, and match procedures.

International officials and referees oversaw the bouts in accordance with the competition rules and regulations.

The Indian contingent gained first-hand insight into international championship management, officiating standards, athlete preparation, and the overall organisation of elite-level Savate competitions.

Aditya Khandizod’s Performance

First Bout: India vs Senegal

Indian athlete Aditya Khandizod faced Idrissa Sagna of Senegal in a closely contested bout. The match concluded with a unanimous decision in favour of the Senegalese athlete.

Despite the narrow defeat, Aditya demonstrated determination and competitive ability, earning another opportunity to compete through the championship’s polling system.

Second Bout: India vs Türkiye

In his second bout, Aditya faced Kerem Altay of Türkiye, an athlete with experience at multiple World Championships.

Aditya approached the contest with confidence, courage, and determination, delivering a strong performance against his experienced opponent. The bout again ended with a unanimous decision.

Although the result did not go in India’s favour, the narrow margin highlighted the competitiveness of the contest. Aditya’s performance provided valuable lessons that will support his continued development and preparation for future international events.

Rishav Sharma’s Performance

First Bout: India vs Canada

Indian athlete Rishav Sharma faced Nour-Eddine Behhdadi of Canada in his opening bout. The contest was highly competitive and concluded with a unanimous decision in favour of Canada.

Rishav’s performance earned him another opportunity through the polling system, allowing him to continue his World Championship campaign.

Second Bout: India vs Algeria

In his second bout, Rishav competed against Smael Mayouf of Algeria, an experienced international-level athlete and previous world champion of this weight category.

Rishav demonstrated technique, speed, tactical awareness, and determination throughout the contest. The bout once again concluded with a unanimous decision in favour of Algeria.

Although Rishav missed out on victory, his performance reflected his willingness to compete at the highest level and provided valuable experience for his future sporting career.

Valuable Lessons for the Future

Both Indian athletes faced strong international opposition and experienced four highly competitive bouts collectively.

While the athletes did not secure victories, their participation represented an important step in the development of Indian Savate. Their first World Championship experience exposed them to higher levels of competition, tactical preparation, match intensity, and international sporting standards.

The experience will help identify areas for improvement in technical execution, strategy, physical conditioning, and mental preparation.

The Indian contingent now aims to build on these lessons through more systematic training and preparation for upcoming Asian and World Championship opportunities.

Coach Bhupendra Shivaji Gaikwad’s Role and Experience

As the Indian contingent’s coach, Mr. Bhupendra Shivaji Gaikwad supported both athletes throughout the championship, providing guidance, motivation, and mental preparation before and after their bouts.

The championship also offered him an opportunity to observe international coaching methods, training systems, competitive strategies, athlete discipline, and performance standards.

Appreciation for International Guidance

The Indian contingent expresses its sincere appreciation to Navjot Barjot, who served as an international-level official at the championship.

Despite his demanding responsibilities, he provided valuable guidance, encouragement, and mental support to the Indian contingent whenever possible.

His assistance was greatly appreciated by the coach and athletes. The contingent congratulates him on his appointment and extends its gratitude for his support during the event.

Looking Ahead: A Stronger Future for Indian Savate

The World Savate Championship in France marked an important milestone for India.

The experience has reinforced a vital lesson: international competition is not only about winning medals; it is also about learning, adapting, improving, and preparing for future success.

The Indian contingent remains determined to work harder, strengthen its preparation, and pursue better results at upcoming Asian and World Championships.

Every bout has provided valuable lessons. Every challenge has created an opportunity to improve. The experience gained in France will serve as a foundation for the next stage of their sporting journey.

The mission continues: to develop stronger Indian Savate athletes and raise the Indian Tricolour higher on the international stage.

Savate India Association congratulates the Indian contingent for its participation, dedication, and commitment to representing India at the World Savate Championship.

Jai Hind!

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