🥉 From Bishan CC to SEA Games Glory - Isaiah Tang
- Karate-Do Goju-Kai Singapore
- Dec 21, 2025
- 5 min read
On 13 December 2025, one of KGS’s Black Belt senpai, Isaiah Tang, competed at the 33rd SEA Games in Bangkok for the first time and emerged as a Bronze Medalist in the Men’s Kumite -75kg category. Isaiah fought valiantly against opponents from Malaysia, Vietnam, and Myanmar, clinching an impressive 8–0 victory in the bronze medal match. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Isaiah on this remarkable achievement.
Photo Credits: AKF Asian Karate Federation
Growing up
Isaiah joined the Bishan CC dojo at the age of 7 and has been with the club for over 13 years.
We have had the privilege of watching him grow from a playful young boy who simply enjoyed training with his friends into the mature and dependable senpai he is today. His years of hard work, dedication, resilience, and optimistic spirit, together with the unyielding support of his family, have led him to this proud moment.
Q&A with Isaiah
Today, we sit down with Isaiah as he reflects on his journey and experiences following his return from Thailand.
How do you feel before and after the match?
Before the match, I felt excited as it was my first time competing at an international level in six months, and also my first SEA Games. At the same time, I was very nervous because I wanted to put on a good performance for my family and friends who flew down to support the team. I also had expectations of myself to win a medal. After winning the bronze medal, I felt incredibly relieved and happy, knowing that all my hard work and my entire karate journey had paid off. Seeing the cheers from supporters, teammates, and coaches made the experience even more surreal.
How do you feel about the SEA Games experience?
Honestly, I was very satisfied with the experience. Being able to don the official Team Singapore attire throughout the competition was a dream come true. I still remember telling my friends, “Just wait till I get that Singapore jacket.”
Every competition creates unforgettable memories, and this one was especially meaningful. Winning a medal was truly the cherry on top.
Anything you wish to say to your family and friends?
Words can’t describe how thankful I am to my family and friends who have supported me and watched me grow from a playful, naughty kid into who I am today. All of you played a part in this journey, and I just want to say that I love and appreciate you all. 🫶🏽
What words of motivation do you have for your juniors & parents out there?
Always dare to dream and have confidence in yourself. And if you ever feel doubtful or scared, remember that your Sensei and Senpais are always here to support you.
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We also spoke with Isaiah’s parents, who have been pivotal in his journey, to hear their feelings on watching their son step onto the international stage and emerge as a SEA Games bronze medalist.
Q&A with Isaiah's mother, Mrs Jintana Tang
How did it feel watching his journey over the years?
Isaiah started martial arts by chance as we simply wanted to help him expend his energy. We chose karate as it was less common compared to Taekwondo. He was a very playful and cheeky boy, often testing the patience of his coaches and seniors. Yet, I saw how the coach and seniors were always patient with him, constantly engaging him. That makes me somewhat comfortable to entrust him to the team travelling to his 2nd KL competition without us. We had regular updates from the team during the trip and I remembered getting a call from Sensei Eugene that they had missed their flight but they will try to get a van to return and that a senior will send him home no matter how late it was. From then, we were glad that he was with KGS who over the years had instilled in him to be respectful, have good sportsmanship and be disciplined in balancing training, competition and studies.
How did it feel watching him represent Singapore?
Watching him represent Singapore was surreal. It seem like a dream and it only became real when he came back with all the athletic kits given by SNOC. The years of training and competitions both locally and overseas. All the hardwork behind the scene by the club and his own self discipline and determination had finally being rewarded.
How did it feel watching him compete on that day?
When he walked out, beneath the smile and cheekiness. I could sense his pride, confidence and the hunger to win. I can tell he was disappointed when he lost the 2nd match despite trying hard. Prior to his bronze match, I texted him, "do your best for yourself". The medal shows his perseverance and determination. It is not just his own effort but everyone from the club (coach, seniors even fellow parents) that had made it possible.
What are you most proud of beyond the medal?
Beyond the medal, what I am most proud of is how the values of the club have shaped him, not just in karate but in all aspects of his life.
Any tips for other kids/ parents out there?
To parents and children, every child has his own potential. Never give up, even when results are not immediately visible as the club had never given up on any player and has always remained supportive and encouraging even till this day. We can never thank the club, all past and present seniors enough for seeing Isaiah through all these years.
Q&A with Isaiah's father, Mr Gabriel Tang
How did it feel watching his journey over the years?
It all started with just trying to find a sport to expend Isaiah's energy. We chanced upon KGS Karate at Bishan CC, and to be honest, he was running around and never looked serious! But I saw how patient and caring his seniors were, and that stuck with me. Over time, that club became a family.
When Isaiah was selected for the SEA Games, I asked if he’d be happy with a podium finish. He looked at me and said he was aiming for GOLD. That’s when I realized: underneath the playful exterior, he was dead serious.
Seeing him at the airport, and then on the tatami representing Singapore, was surreal. It reminded me of the years of discipline that got him there. When he jumped for joy for that Bronze medal, it wasn't just for him. That medal represented the whole group of people who nurtured him and spurred him on.
I thank God for this opportunity. To all parents: Never doubt your child's potential. It just takes one small spark, but a whole lot of support, to nurture an athlete to their full potential.
We are so proud of you Isaiah, keep shining brightly!
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