Monash student fights her way to gold
Caroline with the German Open Cup at the German Open, Hamburg.
Taekwondo athlete Caroline Marton became the second female to win gold for Australia at the German Open Taekwondo tournament in Hamburg recently.
Caroline, who has been a student at Monash University for ten years and is currently completing her Masters of Juris Doctor with the Faculty of Law, said the German Open has historically been one of the strongest European Opens.
“This year it is the biggest of the European Opens, with over 1200 competitors, over 15 National teams and over 30 countries competing at the event, so taking out the gold for Australia was an extra special victory,” Caroline said.
Caroline was not alone at this tournament, her sister Carmen also competed, making it through to the quarter finals.
“It was amazing to have Carmen there with me all the way. She is my biggest supporter and she knows how to get the best out of me on competition day. Conversely I’m there to help her prepare also. She’s an amazing athlete having represented Australia at two Olympic Games,” Caroline said.
“I am really lucky. My brother Jack and my sister’s fiancé Safwan were also competing. Both missed out on medals at the German Open but both won bronze at the Dutch Open the following week. It’s safe to say taekwondo is a family sport.”
Caroline started out at Monash studying a Bachelor of Arts (International Studies) before completing her Honours in International Studies and History. Most of her study has been undertaken part-time as she juggled her sporting commitments with her studies.
“I wouldn’t be able to achieve my sporting and academic goals without the Monash Elite Athlete Program. They are very supportive and help me tremendously when I have international events which clash with my classes,” Caroline said.
“Monash sport have also helped me achieve my goals through sport bursaries and funding, as well as gym access, which helps with fitting training in to university life.”
Caroline said any Monash students interested in pursuing sport at an international level should give it a go.
“You’re only young once and Monash University, through its Australian and World University Sport programs, offers great opportunities to compete at a high level and have fun while doing it.”