My karate journey: Olívia Kákosy

Meet Olívia Kákosy, a 22-year-old parakarateka hailing from Budapest, Hungary. With three European and two World Championship titles under her belt, Olívia is not just a champion in the ring but also a beacon of dedication and passion for her sport. Despite her remarkable achievements, she remains grounded, still pursuing her studies alongside her karate career.

Olívia’s journey into karate began in 2017, driven by her fascination with Japanese culture. However, it was the thrill of competition and the opportunity to immerse herself in diverse cultures through travel that truly ignited her passion for the sport. Embracing the vibrant karate community, she found a sense of belonging and purpose.

„I have always been interested in Japanese culture. In 2017 I got involved with karate, but it was the competition itself that sparked my interest. It was exciting, and the opportunity to travel and explore other cultures inspired me. I happily joined this fantastic karate community.“

For Olívia, karate is more than just physical prowess. It’s a mental sanctuary that brings tranquility and structure to her life. Through the challenges of competition, she has forged enduring friendships and discovered the power of resilience and discipline.

„Karate’s mentality calms me, relaxes me, and allows me to move within defined frameworks. Through competitions, I’ve been able to form new, lifelong friendships.“

Inspired by the dedication and humility of role models like Sandra Sanchez and Rika Usami, Olívia aspires to emulate their ethos both on and off the tatami. She credits her mother as her greatest supporter, whose unwavering love and guidance have been her pillar of strength through every triumph and setback.

As she gears up to defend her title at the upcoming European Championships in Zadar, Olívia’s preparation is fueled by determination and dedication. While she acknowledges the pressure of defending her crown, she approaches each challenge with unwavering focus and a commitment to give her best.

With her sights set on long-term goals of defending her titles and eventually becoming a sensei, Olívia sees herself not only as a competitor but also as an ambassador for karate and its values. Her message to her fans and supporters is one of gratitude and humility, acknowledging the immense support that fuels her journey and inspires her to strive for excellence.

„Thanks to everyone. It feels good to know that my progress is being followed. I am grateful for every encouraging word, and it makes me happy to be loved.“

As Olívia Kákosy prepares to step onto the tatami once again, her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of a true champion.