Belagavi, Karnataka : In a momentous recognition of
dedication, perseverance, and an unrelenting passion for martial arts, Taekwondo
Master Shreepada R. Rao has been bestowed with a prestigious honour
in the International World Records Book. Adding to this illustrious
achievement, he has been awarded the INTERNATIONAL ICON AWARD 2025 in two
distinguished fields:
- Sports: For his
illustrious service as a strategic and dynamic Sports Administrator.
- Social Service: For his
humanitarian service initiatives towards society, women empowerment, and
fostering rural talents through sports under his NGO, Yakshit Yuva
Foundation
This accolade is a testament to his extraordinary
contributions to the world of sports as a coach, referee, and administrator,
alongside his selfless service as a humanitarian.
A Martial Arts Prodigy
Master Rao’s journey in the martial arts domain commenced at
the tender age of 9 when he first trained in Shito Ryu Style Karate under the
esteemed Karate Master Subramanya Paarla and Grand Master Thomas in Puttur,
Karnataka. His relentless pursuit of excellence saw him transition into
Shotokan Karate before embracing Olympic Taekwondo under Master Subhash Yadav
at the age of 16. This formative phase cemented his dedication to Taekwondo,
leading him to achieve the prestigious 4th Dan International Black Belt certification
from Kukkiwon – World Taekwondo Headquarters, Seoul, South Korea, in 2023.
A Revered Coach and Sports Administrator
Determined to nurture young talent, Master
Rao established the Rao’s Yuva Academy in 2012, which has become a
premier Taekwondo training centre in Belagavi, Karnataka with being ISO
9001:2015 certification since 2022. Registered under the Taekwondo Federation
of India in the year 2014, the academy has trained numerous athletes in
Taekwondo. Many of his students have gone on to excel at district, state, and
national championships, bringing laurels to their families.
His expertise as a coach has been recognised with
prestigious certifications, including the World Taekwondo Level I & II
International Coach Certifications, Post Graduate Diploma in Sports Coaching
from Sunrise University, Alwar and an NIS Certificate in Sports Coaching
(Taekwondo) from the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports, Patiala. His
coaching prowess was globally acknowledged when he was inducted into the World
Sports Martial Arts Council’s Hall of Fame in the USA, receiving the Best Coach
in the Field of Taekwondo Award in 2022.
In his administrative roles, Taekwondo Master Rao has
significantly contributed to the promotion of Taekwondo at multiple levels.
Serving as the Technical Director of Karnataka Taekwondo Association, the
Senior Vice-President of Belagavi District Taekwondo Association & the
Chairman of Udupi District Taekwondo Association, he has played a crucial role
in structuring Taekwondo events, refining officiating standards, and ensuring
the Taekwondo sport’s growth across Karnataka.
An Accomplished Referee and Tournament Director
As a certified National Referee, Taekwondo Master Rao has
officiated as Technical Director at several high-profile tournaments, including
twice in CBSE South Zone Championships, thrice in DASARA Games Chief Minister’s
Cup, and more than 10 times at State Taekwondo Championships. His leadership
roles as Tournament Director and Competition Supervisor in numerous district,
state, and national events have elevated the standards of Taekwondo
officiating, ensuring fair play and professionalism in the sport.
A Decorated Athlete and International Competitor
Beyond his coaching and officiating endeavours, Taekwondo
Master Rao has demonstrated exceptional skill as a competitor. He clinched a
Gold Medal at the Belagavi District Taekwondo Championship (2014) in the Junior
Category (Under 40 KG) and later achieved international acclaim by winning Gold
for India in the Senior (Under 54 KG) Category at the International Beach
Combat Games (2019) in Goa.
A Visionary Leader in Sports Development
Taekwondo Master Rao’s contributions extend beyond
Taekwondo. He played a pivotal role in integrating Taekwondo, an Olympic
discipline into the sports curriculum of Rani Channamma University, Belagavi.
His initiatives, such as launching the Karavali Taekwondo Championship, have
provided a much-needed platform for emerging athletes in Karnataka’s coastal
regions.
A Life Dedicated to Social Service and Humanitarian Efforts
Parallel to his illustrious sports career, Taekwondo
Master Rao has been a torchbearer of humanitarian service. As the
Founding Trustee & Chairman of Yakshit Yuva Foundation, he has spearheaded
initiatives focused on youth empowerment, social welfare, and community
development. His philanthropic efforts have benefitted numerous underprivileged
individuals, reinforcing his belief in using sports as a key for social
transformation.
Recognitions and Global Impact
Taekwondo Master Rao’s exceptional contributions have earned
him numerous awards and accolades, including:
• INTERNATIONAL
ICON AWARD 2025 for Sports and Social Service in January 2025.
• Commendation
by the Hon’ble Minister of Water Resources, Govt. of Karnataka (2020) for his
outstanding contributions to Taekwondo.
• Induction
into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame India (2022) by Dr. Grandmaster Jimmy R.
Jagtiani, the Father of Taekwondo in India.
• World
Sports Star Award (2022) from the World Sports Martial Arts Council, USA.
• Global
License as a Referee, Coach, and Official (2020) from World Taekwondo,
Lausanne, Switzerland.
• Induction
into the World Taekwondo Partnership Program (2023) with a scholarship for
advanced international training at Taekwondowon, Muju, South Korea.
A Legacy for Future Generations
Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Sports Administration
& Management at East Bridge University, Paris, Taekwondo Master Shreepada
R. Rao continues to make a profound impact in the field of sports and
humanitarian service. His recognition in the International World Records Book
and his INTERNATIONAL ICON AWARD 2025 serve as a beacon of inspiration for
athletes, administrators, and changemakers worldwide.
As he continues his journey, his legacy stands as a
testament to the transformative power of sports in shaping lives and
communities. For aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts his story is a
reminder that excellence is not merely about winning medals but about uplifting
others, fostering discipline, and leaving an enduring impact on society.