President Dr Patrick Herminie today received two-time World Champion Samuel Fanny and his coach, 8th Dan karate practitioner Mr Philip Moustache, during a courtesy call at State House.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the President to congratulate Mr Fanny on his recent achievement of finishing as second World Champion in Kyokushin Karate (Kata) held in Kazakhstan. President Herminie expressed pride in seeing the young Seychellois athlete represent the country on the international stage and fly the Seychelles flag high.
President Herminie highlighted sport as an important avenue for nurturing discipline, perseverance and determination among young people, while creating opportunities for them to represent Seychelles internationally.
“I am proud when I see young Seychellois pursuing sports. Through discipline and perseverance, they can achieve great things and serve as an inspiration to others,” the President said.
During the meeting, Mr Fanny's coach, Mr Moustache, also spoke about his long-standing commitment to Kyokushin Karate. This year marks 51 years since he began practising the sport, having started his career at the age of 19.
He said that perseverance, discipline and determination have been key throughout his journey and have helped him reach where he is today.
President Herminie encouraged Mr Fanny to continue pursuing his sporting ambitions and reaffirmed the Government's broader commitment to supporting the development of Seychellois athletes and creating opportunities for young people to excel through sport.
Mr Fanny has been practising karate for the past four years. Speaking during an interview, he said that he is preparing to participate in a local competition in September, while also looking forward to future international competitions.
Also present at the courtesy call was the Chief Executive Officer of the National Sports Council (NSC), Mr Mario Pragassen.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.