India`s leading woman karateka Valena Valentina launched her own school `VV Karateka` here at Pandav Nagar,Tankapani Road today. Twin city Police Commissioner Rajendra Prasad Sharma inaugurated the school, which aims to groom karate talents for national and international glory.

``The school is making a modest start with 13 students in its rank. Our immediate goal is to achieve success in the state championship to be held in the city next week,`` said Valentina, who won scores of national and international medals in her illustrious career.

``Producing karatekas of national and international repute will be the future goal of the school. We also aim to empower women and make them self-dependant through karate,`` added Valentina, who narrowly missed a bronze medal in 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games.
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PHOTO: Trainees and guests at the launching of karate school in Bhubaneswar on March 26, 2015.