The apprentice with 5 medals: 'I work at a repair shop to cover competition fees'

The judo journey of 7th-grade student İbrahim Halil Kadak, which began when coach Selman Süren discovered him doing backflips on a turf field in Diyarbakır, has resulted in great success in a short time. 12-year-old Kadak has achieved significant success by winning 1 medal in Europe and 4 in Turkey within 3 years.

I WORKED AT AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP DURING SUMMER BREAKS

İbrahim Halil Kadak stated that while he attends judo classes during the school term, he works at an auto repair shop during summer breaks to save money to participate in competitions. Kadak said, "After school, I would go to judo training. During summer breaks, I work at an auto repair shop and save money for competitions. Even though it is difficult, I am determined to succeed."

Judo coach Selman Süren made various visits to rural neighborhoods, village schools, and mosque courses in 2021 with the aim of introducing children to sports.

During these visits, Süren noticed İbrahim Halil Kadak, who was constantly doing backflips on the turf field at Şehit Yunus Elaltunterin Secondary School in Çelikevler Neighborhood, and directed him to judo classes. Kadak showed rapid development in his judo training, which he began at the sports hall belonging to the Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports.

In 2023, Kadak placed 3rd in Turkey in the 26-kilogram category at the Turkish Judo Championship held in Balıkesir, and won a gold medal by placing 1st at the Balkan Judo Championship held in Sibiu, Romania. Additionally, he became the champion in Uşak in May 2024, placed 2nd in Turkey in Afyonkarahisar in April, and 3rd in Turkey in Muğla in July.

News Source: 12punto