Fachrizal Zakaria: Fighting His Way to the Top

Indomilk Arena Stadium in Kelapadua, Banten, roared with cheers as Fachrizal Zakaria’s powerful kick (kyorugi under 68 kg) earned three points in the first round for Taekwondo Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS). He faced formidable athletes from Banten in the prestigious Prabu Taekwondo 7 Challenge Open National Championship on March 3, 2024, and admitted feeling nervous.

“In the early rounds, I felt overwhelmed. My opponent was 10 cm taller than me and had more flexible legs. I doubted my ability to win,” recalled the UMS Communication Sciences student, known as Rizal

Though losing in the first round was unfortunate, Rizal can hold his head high as he was only one point behind his opponent, with a score of 5 to 6.

“My coach motivated me, saying, ‘You did great! You competed against a former National Student Sports Week (POMNas) athlete and only lost by a small margin.’ I needed to fight the next round to determine the final ranking. Alhamdulillah, I still earned a bronze medal,” Rizal expressed his gratitude.

Rizal's performance in the Prabu Challenge 2024 was admirable. Despite the initial setback affecting him mentally, he demonstrated remarkable resilience and made a strong comeback in the second round. His self-defense skills, particularly the makki technique, were instrumental in deflecting his opponent's powerful attacks.

Born in Sukoharjo, Central Java, on March 8, 2004, Fachrizal Zakaria entered the world of taekwondo during his elementary school years. At the age of eight, Rizal joined taekwondo classes on the recommendation of his parents. The son of Agung Hambali and Suratmi decided to explore his talents in taekwondo.

“Since childhood, I’ve enjoyed all kinds of sports! but I was being recommended to taekwondo and now it has become my passion,” said the youngest of two siblings.

Rizal consistently participated in numerous championships, experiencing both victories and defeats but it doesn’t matter to him as the most crucial aspect for him was his dedication to continuous learning and practice.

“While studying Communication Sciences, I became interested in photography and videography. However, my passion for taekwondo is much stronger,” Rizal explained. 

His words ring true. Upon enrolling in UMS Communication Sciences in 2022, he consistently trained and participated in various taekwondo championships with UMS Taekwondo Student Club. As a freshman, he did not hesitate to join the UMS Taekwondo booth during the annual Student Club EXPO, an event to welcome freshmen.

Rizal’s strong personality earned him the position of head of public relations for Taekwondo UMS. This role demanded excellent communication skills. Balancing academics and extracurricular activities is no easy feat, but Rizal strives to manage his schedule effectively.

“My schedule between training, organizational duties, and studies rarely conflicts. Even when it does, I try not to neglect my studies. My parents always remind me that education is a priority, but they also understand my passion for taekwondo,” he shared.

The photography enthusiast revealed the extent of his training routine: “I dedicate time for physical training every day, including jogging, cycling, and climbing stairs.”

He emphasized that daily training for taekwondo athletes naturally develops strength, flexibility, and balance.

“If physical training is neglected, performance becomes inconsistent. I compete in the under 68 kg (63.01-68.00 kg) category, so besides physical training, I also follow a specific diet to maintain my weight within that range,” said the Communication Sciences student.

Rizal isn’t overly selective about his foods, as long as it includes a balanced diet. He often analyzes videos of taekwondo matches to watch opponents’ attack patterns and weaknesses, aiding him in devising effective tactics during competitions.

The Sukoharjo-born taekwondo athlete deemed every practice session as an opportunity for learning and growth.

“I always evaluate every match I participate in, regardless of the outcome. This helps me identify my strengths and weaknesses,” he explained.

Rizal’s impressive performance at the Prabu Challenge 2024 championships showcased his resilience as a taekwondo athlete. However, his accomplishments did not stop there. Recently, Rizal achieved remarkable success at the 2024 Taekwondo Panglima Konstrad Cup held in East Jakarta. He secured a bronze medal in kyorugi and a gold medal in poomsae (art) categories.

“I have mixed feelings. Panglima Konstrad Cup is a renowned championship. During the competition, the TNI and POLRI were watching, and as far as I know, many of them were former taekwondo athletes from the National Training Center (Pelatnas). It adds to the pressure!” Rizal admitted, ruffling his hair.

Rizal (right) while competing in the Panglima Konstrad Cup 2024, East Jakarta. private doc.

The Panglima Konstrad Cup is a highly competitive competition, attracting talented athletes across Indonesia. Rizal’s bronze medal in kyorugi is a testament to his perseverance and dedication. Having typically focused on kyorugi, Rizal decided to try poomsae, where the assessment criteria differ significantly from kyorugi.

“Poomsae is judged on the beauty and precision of movements. Every step must adhere to the taught techniques, with no errors,” explained the black belt taekwondoin. In taekwondo, a black belt represents the highest level of mastery, symbolizing maturity and proficiency.

His spirit remains unwavering. He is consistently dedicated to his training and always strives for future achievements. One of his greatest aspirations is to join the National Pelatnas.

“Joining Pelatnas has long been a dream of mine,” he genuinely hoped. “I want to train alongside the country’s top athletes and represent Indonesia in prestigious championships.”

Rizal acknowledged that achieving this dream demands more than routine training. It requires dedication and hard work. Demonstrating his commitment to reaching his goals, he consistently seeks opportunities to enhance his skills and deepen his knowledge of taekwondo.

UMS PR/Muhammad Imam Safi'i

“Hopefully, my dream will soon become a reality,” he added whilst raising a big smile.

Fachrizal Zakaria is a reminder that big dreams necessitate substantial effort. He strives to achieve his ambitions through perseverance, hard work, and an undying spirit.

“I want to show that with dedication and prayer, we can accomplish anything we set our minds to. Never give up, for every effort will eventually yield results,” he shared optimistically.

Writer: Genis Dwi Gustati

Editor: Al Habiib Josy Asheva

Designer: Salsabila Kamila Wardah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid