On May 26th, the 37th Paulista Karate Championship, held in Ribeirão Pires, marked an unforgettable moment for Renan Fabiano Gameiro, a 21-year-old young man who found in sport a way of transformation and overcoming. Renan became champion in the Advanced and Heavy category, demonstrating not only skill and determination, but also the willpower that accompanied him throughout his life.

Renan discovered karate through Aliança de Misericórdia, which welcomed him into the Casa Naim social project in 2012, after the closure of one of the shelters where he lived. Since the age of five, Renan has faced a series of challenges, including the loss of his mother and, more recently, his father to COVID-19.

The Covenant of Mercy, however, offered him more than just shelter; it provided him with a new family, emotional support and the opportunity to discover karate. “The role of the Alliance in my life, guys, was very good, because it lifted me up. And, in addition to getting me back on my feet, welcoming me, she showed me the sport, which was karate, which is the sport I still play in today.”, share.

Renan's passion for karate intensified during the pandemic in 2020, when he realized that the sport had become an essential part of his life. “A specific moment when I realized that I was passionate about karate was during the pandemic. When I went without for a long time, I was like, oh my God, I need this. I live for this. I realized that karate, without karate, I feel like I’m missing something, I feel empty”, revealed.

Preparing for the championship was not easy. Renan faced several challenges, including the need to balance training with work and studies. However, he highlighted the importance of mental strength for success in sport. “I had to prepare my mind a lot, because having a strong mind to fight is one of the main things besides the body. If your mentality isn’t strong, there’s no point, otherwise you won’t be able to fight.”.

In addition to karate, Renan also stands out as a goalkeeper in football, a passion he inherited from his father. He believes sport is an important tool for personal development and encourages other young people to persist in their journeys. “For people who are starting to play sports, it is worth believing in the process. Because when you understand and do what you love, you will see that it is all worth it.”, he advised.

Renan has big goals for the future. He aspires to win the title in this year's South American championship and secure a place in next year's world championship. Determined and focused, he continues training and preparing for these challenges, maintaining the discipline and competitive spirit that took him to the top in the 37th Paulista Karate Championship.