Hailed as the Kyorugi Taekwondo Elementary Male Category One champion last year, still Khalid Zaim A. Ilaji, remained undefeated for this year’s ZPRAA Meet. Yesterday, April 24, 2024 at Citymall Tetuan, Zamboanga City, Ilaji proved once again that he’s a cut above the rest after bagging the gold medal.

 Ilaji, an elementary student from Ateneo de Zamboanga University, added the gold medallion in the roster of awards for Zamboanga City after successfully winning a series of matches against the other delegates from the different divisions. With this remarkable victory, Khalid will represent Region IX in the upcoming sports event Batang Pinoy which will be held in Cebu City. His performance drew pride and applause among the spectators especially to his fellow Zamboangueño athletes.

His exceptional skills in the sparring ring are anchored by his passionate coach, Marlon Avenido. His dedication to train Ilaji fueled him to stay on top for two consecutive years. Immediately after receiving his award, Khalid commended his opponents for the good and friendly competition that they manifested all throughout. He also expressed that during the heat of the competition, he felt the pressure and need to retain his title, but as he went along the way he turned all those into motivation.

Furthermore, Ilaji said “believe in your dreams.” Definitely, this young man is finally turning his dream into a reality.