Taekwondo Fighters News and Reviews

Condition no handicap in pursuit of black belt

2010-05-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

A woman who was born without arms or kneecaps is preparing to test for her black belt in taekwondo.

Sheila Radziewicz of Salem is to take her test next month at Bruce McCorry’s Martial Arts in Peabody.

The 32-year-old brown belt, who was born with thrombocytopenia absent radius, told The Salem News she has been training in martial arts for three years.

McCorry, her teacher, said that despite her condition, Radziewicz can use nunchucks and break boards with her kicks.

Radziewicz works as an advocate for victims of domestic violence.

http://www.kansascity.com

Self Defense Is the Best Defense

2009-10-24T11:20:00.000-07:00

The world is becoming a very unsafe place to live in. Especially, women have to be on their toes at all times. When faced with a situation to defend yourself, do not expect a super hero to come to your rescue. Instead, learn to protect yourself. Self defense is the best form of defense and it is very essential for women. It does not mean that you must have a formal training in martial arts, like judo, karate, or taekwondo, although it is always good to learn any one of them. But, you should have an idea about defending yourself when being attacked.

Till the time you get trained in one of the martial art forms, there are self-defense products that will come to your rescue when you have to fend for your safety. The category includes stun guns, pepper sprays, personal alarms, and much more and is a non-violent method of defending yourself. Use them judiciously to ward off an attack, mugging, rape, or any other form of assault. To make the correct choice of self-defense products to suit your requirements, read on to know more about them.

Self-defense pepper spray is one of the most effective tools available in the market. It is an inflammatory agent made from very hot peppers and is available in the form of liquid stream, mist, foam, gel, or powdered grains. A shot from the personal defense spray immediately causes a sharp shooting pain. The veins in the eyes and the mucous membranes swell. The person can’t open his eyes and will find it extremely difficult to breathe. The effects are only temporary and last for about 45 minutes, a valuable time for you to escape. The self-defense pepper spray is available as key chains, holsters, pens, and cans that can be easily carried in a purse or pocket.

Self-defense stun gun is another easy-to-use and valuable product, which is more useful in close encounters. It is an electrical self-defense weapon that emits a high voltage and whichever muscle group it is applied to, is depleted of energy due to rapid expanding and contracting. This tool is completely safe for you to hold. While your attacker is left dealing with the shocking repercussions you can easily run for help.

Avis MBS

The Wrestler

2009-10-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

The all-time list of great sports movies is not that long. “Rocky”, “Field of Dreams”, “Hoosiers”, “Raging Bull”, and “Bull Durham” stand out. Add “The Wrestler” to that short list.

Released early this year, the film realistically depicts an aging professional wrestler who should get out of the business for health reasons but does not because he lives for his fans, it's the only life he knows and he needs the money.

Professional wrestling is not true sport because the matches are fixed, but wrestlers are strong, agile athletes. The movie shows backstage camaraderie among the fighters that belies the brutal animosity they display in the ring. If you don't like to see blood, then you may not want to watch this gritty cinema masterpiece.

Mickey Rourke plays Randy “the Ram” Robinson, a star in the 1980s who didn't save enough money to retire and struggles financially. He gets by working small wrestling shows and part-time in a grocery store while living in a rundown trailer park.

During his heyday, he was hugely successful but now he is in his 50s and fading. Thanks to steroids and tanning salons he remains a great physical specimen, but the years of physical abuse have taken their toll on his heart and back. He also struggles emotionally, trying to reconcile with the daughter he abandoned and establishing a romantic relationship with a single 40-something stripper/mother.

Although the movie is about wrestling, the sport is only a vehicle to examine the human condition. As Dirty Harry said, “A man has to know his limitations.” As Jack Kerouac explained, “We have to move on to the later phases of our lives.” The Ram did neither.

While 50-some-year-old wrestlers and 40-some-year-old strippers are conceivable, 60-year-old wrestlers and 50-year-old strippers are, well, I don't want to imagine that.

“The Wrestler” is a modern day tragedy. The two main characters are both likable even though they do despicable things. They are deeply flawed, trapped in lifestyles and careers they chose for themselves decades earlier when their bodies were in their prime but now barely making it with their futures dim and dreams evaporating.

The movie is rated R for violence, sex, and drug use and is not suitable for young people.

I rented the DVD and watched it recently. With the movie still fresh in my mind, I now read that a former great football player is coming out of retirement, not to play football but mixed martial arts. Forty-seven-year-old Herschel Walker has signed with Strikeforce.

My first thought was, “Oh, no! He's too old!” He may be the best 47-year-old athlete in the world but he's still 47. MMA is real fighting, unlike professional wrestling. However, UFC superstar Randy Couture is 46 and look at him.

My second thought was, “Go for it, Herschel!” You only live once and want to accomplish as much as you can. See Brett Favre. Or Jason Tarkong.

Walker has a brown belt in taekwondo so is not completely unfamiliar with fighting. But the ending to “The Wrestler” is not pretty. I wonder if Herschel saw the movie. If he did, perhaps he would reconsider.

http://www.saipantribune.com/

Taekwondo to get rankings at last

2009-10-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

After years of wrangling the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) has decided to implement a ranking system early next year. The intention is to make competitions and events more exciting to the public and the media, and will hopefully open up a range of marketing opportunities for athletes and the sport as a whole.

Along with the introduction of the ranking system, the WTF intends to launch a brand new annual competition to be held at the end of each year for the top 8 ranked athletes in each category, which will serve as a ‘champions championship’. The first of these competitions, provisionally called the Annual President Cup Invitational Tournament, will be held in December 2009.

At first glance the proposed ranking system seems cumbersome and complicated, but so far, a first glance is all we’ve got. According to the WTF, points will be awarded according to a formula: A (Points received according to the rank at the WTF-promoted or sanctioned championships) X B (Grade of pertinent tournaments) = final points.

The system will be applied to WTF promoted and sanctioned tournaments as follows: first placed athletes will receive 10 points, second place will receive 60% of 10 points i.e. 6 points and third place will receive 60% of 6 points i.e. 3.6 points. And then the fun starts. Points are valid for a two-year period and will be subject to a review every three months in a continuous process. During this two-year period, 25% of a particular set of awarded points will be deducted every three months, which means that when the two-year period is over no points from that set will exist.

Tournaments will be assigned an AAA, AA or A class ranking by a specially appointed Event Evaluation Committee according to the number of participants, technical level displayed and adherence to WTF rules and as such will only occur after the event.

It is hoped that the system will form the basis for a professional Taekwondo league, which will be of benefit to all Taekwondo participants; athletes as well as organisers.

Sandy Cosser
http://wtf.org/site/news/wtf.htm?realnum=237

Fire destroys Beaver Bank Kinsac Community Centre

2009-10-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

A fire that broke out just before midnight Wednesday has gutted the Beaver Bank Kinsac Community Centre and its attached volunteer fire department.

The fire station side of the building suffered the least damage. Firefighters responding to the blaze were able to remove fire trucks and equipment from the fire department's side of the building. Click here for fire Photo Gallery and Click here for Video

No one was injured in the blaze, but smoke still billowing in the area in the wake of the devastating fire has led to the closure of the nearby Beaver Bank-Kinsac Elementary School for today.

The not-for-profit, multipurpose community centre opened its doors in 2004 with great fanfare. Since then, it has been a popular, well-used gathering place and a source of pride for people in the community.

In addition to the fire department and its bays, the centre housed the RCMP's community policing office, a computer-access site, and the Beaver Bank Children's Learning Centre day care.

Everything from community meetings to guitar lessons, taekwondo, a dart league and a summer day camp operated out of the centre. A kids ball hockey program was set to begin next week, and an Oktoberfest event was slated for Oct. 3.

The centre has also served as the focal point for the community's increasingly popular annual tree lighting ceremony.

The large two-storey facility included a full kitchen, large multipurpose room, board room, children's programming room, two adjoining lounges and a community lounge.

Investigators are still on scene and the cause of the blaze is not known at this time.

http://www.halifaxnewsnet.ca/

A Big Break For KidSport A big break for KidSport

2009-10-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

Doug Large will have swelling for two or three days and bruises for a couple weeks. The owner of Chimo Taekwondo spent Wednesday afternoon breaking 1,000 boards in 30 minutes to raise money for KidSport, a program that provides $300 a child per year to families who
cannot afford to put them in a sport.

“We’ve had a fair number of kids come through our program sponsored by KidSport," said Mr.Large.

“So it seemed to be the kind of program that helps all sports organizations and I wanted to raise awareness and raise a little money if we could, and try and get kids interested in sports."

Mr. Large said his efforts raised about $300 but that didn’t deter him because “the primary goal was to raise awareness and I think we’ve done that really, really well today."

Mr. Large’s fundraiser was held as part of the biannual Milk Sport Fair run by Sport Nova Scotia. The fair introduces kids to a broad variety of sports.

“I think it’s excellent because people get to try new sports," said Kayla Dewolfe, 12, a student at Oyster Pond Academy.

“They might like them and get more active."

Of the 2,500 or so students that passed through the three-day fair, an informal survey had wheelchair basketball as a favourite among boys and girls.

“Because you get to go in a wheelchair," explained 12-year-old Virginia Webber.

There were also opportunities to toss a football, simulate water polo, learn about biathlon, skip rope, hula hoop and more. The kids also moistened their palates with chocolate milk provided by the fair’s title sponsor the Dairy Farmers of Canada.

The fair has been held every Spring and Fall since 2001. It has not been held in Halifax for three years, so it was the first time that many metro students attended. It was also the first year that Lisa McKenna brought her students to the fair.

As a physical education teacher at Bel Ayr Elementary School, she said she has seen students become less active over the years, with technology taking up most of their time.

“I think children get a lot of self-esteem (from sports), especially with team sports. (They learn) co-operation, teamwork skills, learning to depend on others and have others depend on them," she said.

As for Mr. Large: “Because we make contact when we train we actually take pride in our bruises. I’ll show them off tonight to the kids and they’ll all go Woo! Ahh! Cool!"

The Chronicle Herald is an official sponsor of KidSport.

tmawji@herald.ca@herald.ca
http://thechronicleherald.ca/

Taekwondo: Crown achieve impressive tally in battle of Biggin Hill

2009-10-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

CROWN Taekwondo Federation (CTF) took a squad down to Burgess Hill for the third stage of the national All Styles tournament last Sunday, writes Stuart Holliday.

There are three phases to the competition being held across the South East and the Midlands and those contenders who achieve at least two trophies - whether it is gold, silver or bronze - get to qualify for the grand final in December, when the champions from those two English regions will then compete.

As the tournament has gained its momentum, so - encouragingly - have CTF and the interest throughout the club has been contagious.

While the coaches and instructors were given a quick team briefing before the action began, Master Dave Crump gave one of the black belt challengers an instruction to warm up the team.

During the health and safety briefing, a loud rumbling noise rang throughout the arena as "Team CTF" ran on the spot in an effort to adhere to Crump's directives.

The rest of the assembled gathering just looked on at the 30-strong squad, all in their new black suits donated by the club's sponsor 2 direct, as they continued to draw everyone's attention.

Throughout the day, every student exceeded all expectations and a real buzz was had by the team and their well-wishers.

CTF did not only achieve nine golds, 12 silvers and eight bronzes - an impressive total of 29 trophies across the three disciplines of continuous sparring, points sparring and traditional forms), but - during the event - students from other clubs were asking about them and where they trained.

At one point even, one of their black belts was approached by another club and asked if he would join them. However, luckily for CTF, he politely declined.

The club will now wait to see who will be receiving an invitation to the final later this year.

Nonetheless, they remain fairly confident of being able to field another strong squad.

CTF have classes in Bromley, Biggin Hill, Sidcup and Halstead.

For more information about CTF, visit their website at:
www.crowntaekwondo.co.uk.

Strike force: Fargo North football player makes North Dakota history in taekwondo

2009-10-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

Taekwondo sparked the interest of Dallas Wagemann several years ago, when he watched his younger brother practice and compete at tournaments.

But Wagemann says it was a movie and martial arts star from the 1970s that nudged him to give it a try.

“It was probably because of all the martial arts movies I was watching,” said Wagemann, now a 16-year-old Fargo North junior. “There had been a few of them. But it was mostly Bruce Lee. Mainly, ‘Enter the Dragon.’ ”

Wagemann, an offensive and defensive lineman on the Spartans’ football team, is the first North Dakotan to earn a spot on the AAU United States National Taekwondo Team. He will represent the U.S. in international competition this spring.

Wagemann’s tournament schedule has not been finalized, but he will likely travel to Germany or The Netherlands, Northwest Martial Arts Academy instructor Roy Gilbertson said.

“It’s huge,” said Gilbertson, who has instructed Wagemann for the last eight years. “He’s a really modest kid and very laid back. But he has progressed immensely. He’s big and he’s super fast for his size. That’s his biggest asset. This is just a stepping stone for him.”

Wagemann has come a long way from a chubby kid who picked up the sport because of the movies.

He’s now 6-foot-1, 200 pounds with unlimited taekwondo potential.

Wagemann insists he’s just having fun.

However, Gilbertson sees big things in Wagemann’s future.

“If he wants it, he’ll make it (to the Olympics),” he said.

Wagemann said he earned his black belt in three years.

Next year will be his final year competing at the junior level. After that, he’ll have an opportunity to work his way onto the senior team. Gilbertson said the senior team is a feeder system for the U.S. Olympic Team.

Wagemann would be eligible for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

“Dallas is a hard worker,” North football teammate Dan Aberle said. “Whenever he sets his mind to something he seems to achieve it. He’s one of the toughest kids I know.”

Wagemann said taekwondo helps keep him in shape during the football offseason and helps his footwork.

He missed seven practices and the Spartans’ first two games this season when he was competing at the AAU Nationals in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

But he’s getting back into the swing of things on the gridiron. Wagemann is starting to see significant time on North’s offensive line.

“He’s learning discipline, he’s learning how to be an athlete and he’s learning how to control his body (in taekwondo),” said North football coach Kelly Kalina, whose team travels to Jamestown on Friday. “And he’s probably bettering himself as a football player, too.”

By: Heath Hotzler
http://www.inforum.com/

Taekwondo Supplies

2009-10-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

The Ancient art of Taekwondo and the supplies you will need to perfect it.

Taekwondo is a Korean form of martial arts, it is the national sport of South Korea. Taekwondo has earned the title of “most popular form of martial arts". The term Taekwondo, when translated from Korean means: tae – “to strike or break with foot”, kwon - “to strike or break with fist”, and do - “way” or “method” thus when the term Taekwondo is loosely translated to english it means, “the way of the foot and fist”. Taekwondo has developed into a combination of the following: self defense, exercise, combat techniques, sport, meditation, and philosophy.

When looking to buy Taekwondo supplies, you will first need to know exactly what you are looking for. There are different categories of Taekwondo supplies, these include equipment, clothes, accessories, footwear, sparring and weapons.

• Taekwondo equipment include: exercising shields, strike bags & gloves and targets.
• The clothing worn by Taekwondo practitioners are called a Dobok. The dobok comes in different colours but the most common is black and white. A TTI (belt) is worn around the dobok, the colour of the belt indicates the grade of the student.
• Taekwondo accessories include: Jigsaw mats, flags, badges (Instructors Dobok rank badge, Cloth badge, jacket badge, lapel badge), bags, key-rings and posters.
• Footwear include: martial art slippers, Ninja Tabi Boots, Tabi socks and training shoes.
• Sparring supplies include: reversible body armour, ladies sports vests, ladies chest protectors, elbow protectors, ankle protectors, forearm protectors, knee protectors, gum shields, groin guards, boxing gloves, hand & foot pads, head guards and shin pads.
• Taekwondo weapon supplies include: weapon cases, and weapons that can come in different materials including rubber, foam, metal and wood. Some weapon names are: nunchaka, training knives, swords, Bo, Jo, Escrima and Bokken. When looking to buy Taekwondo supplies, make sure to search the internet for suppliers. You will be amazed at the wide variety of suppliers to choose from, decide if you want to buy the supplies new or if you are willing to buy clean second hand Taekwondo supplies from reputable re-sellers.

Jaxster Chan

Harvey’s book has different punches

2009-10-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

A former Youngstown-area man and 20-year veteran in martial arts is hoping his first published book — “Mastering Muay Thai Kick-Boxing: MMA [Mixed Martial Arts]-Proven Techniques” — proves to be a big hit with students, instructors and fans alike in the sport.

Joe Harvey, a native of Youngstown, said that his book from Tuttle Publishing about Thailand’s native sport, which is similar to boxing, is different from other martial arts book in two main ways.

“The format is different from other martial arts books that simply offer step-by-step photographs. My book is just the opposite. I tell you all details in text and only show photos in specific areas for illustration,” said Harvey, a 1991 graduate of Austintown Fitch High who attended Youngstown State.

He now lives in Woodbridge, Va., near Washington, D.C., and is a martial arts instructor, researcher and writer as well as a competitor in training.

“That [different format] was the biggest thing and that made [the book] new and innovative, but hard to get published until I was able to find Tuttle. It is more text rather then photos, like you are getting information from an instructor.”

In addition, Harvey said that he has drawn on his wealth of experience and connections in martial arts to make the book a state-of-the-art study of Muay Thai, which he said is “similar to boxing except that fighters also can use elbows, knees and shins, and can use standing grappling to get into position to make a certain type of move.”

In fact, “There is a complete set of standard grappling moves that are strikes and defense,” he pointed out.

Harvey believes that his book “is the closest thing you can get to having an actual instructor without having one because of all experience I have had and the people I have trained with, and I extract the best of my experience and put it in the book,” he said.

“I give the reader options, depending on what they want from the book and what they are looking for. They can study the techniques that interest them. It’s like a reference book consisting of the entire arsenal of Muay Thai strikes.”

His book is available at all major book stores, including Borders and Barnes and Noble, as well as most online book sites including bn.com and amazon.com.

Harvey atttended Harrison Elementary School in Youngstown, Mineral Ridge Middle school and Mineral Ridge High school before transferring to Fitch.

He began his official martial arts training at the Downtown YWCA in 1983 under Jim Evans in intramural classes for Ji Do Kwan/Taekwondo.

Since then, he has climbed the ranks of the martial arts as a versatile student, competitor, instructor and researcher, and has done extensive traveling and networking in the field to tap the best minds for the latest developments in the sport.

He has black belt ranks in different martial arts styles and from different organizations, including a black belt from training in Muay Thai, Filipino Martial Arts, and Jeet kune Do under one of the foremost martial arts authorities and instructors in the world, Patrick Tray.

He said Tray is a 20-year Navy Seal veteran [and] 10-year Navy Seal Combat trainer who is a representative for a world renown martial arts organizations near Washington D.C.”

Harvey said, “I seek out instructors because I want to learn. I have a huge network of instructor.” And, “Instructors also can use my book. My book is for beginners or advanced students.”

Harvey said he makes his living in martial arts. “I live close to the Pentagon. I am doing instruction and writing and I have my training. I can’t get enough learning. In just the last six months, I have been back in training.”

He also is planning a another book.

“Tuttle [Publishing] asked me to do another one. I may do my next one the same way I did this one, but do it with another form of martial arts.”

Most of Harvey’s family still is in the Youngstown area. His mother, Helen Rush, lives in Austintown and a brother, Richard, lives in Youngstown, and he has other famly members in the area as well.

kovach@vindy.com
http://www.vindy.com/

Students for Women’s Issues leads self-defense class

2009-10-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

If Miss Congeniality taught us nothing else, it was to SING. Solar plexus. Instep. Nose. Groin. That’s right: Self-defense in a simple pseudonym. In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Week, Students for Women’s Issues offered a self-defense class this Monday. David Heineman (B1) led the class for Drake students.

“Today is about using the resources you already have to defend yourself and to hopefully get away safely,” SWI co-president Jennifer Henry (AS3) said.

Heineman has shared his art since he was 13 years old. He has a third-degree black belt in Taekwondo and Budo Jujitsu and a first degree in Hapkido.

Heineman demonstrated basic, yet effective, moves that can deter attackers in various situations.

One thing that makes women easy targets is their long hair, Heineman said. He said that if the attacker grabs your hair, you should get control of his hand and strike him in the face. However, Heineman advised using the heel of your hand rather than a fist.

The natural reaction women have when being assaulted is to try and pull away from their attacker. However, it is more effective to use their energy against them.

“If he’s pulling you, you don’t want to resist,” Heineman said. “The simplest way to get out of it is to kick him in the knee.”

Heineman has his own memory device for self-defense: See, air, run.

“Make it so they can’t breathe, they can’t see and they can’t move,” Heineman said. “Hit them as hard as you can in the nose or throat, the eyes and their knees.”

However, you don’t need Jackie Chan’s moves to stay safe; just be smart.

“When you’re walking at night, always walk with somebody,” Heineman said.

That cute purse you brought to the party or the high heels you wore to the bar could be an assaulter’s worst nightmare.

“Use everyday objects as weapons,” Heineman said. “Keep your purse in your hand, not over your shoulder.”

This way, it is ready to be used as a defense weapon.

Lauren Reed (PP2) also attended the class.

“People think about (self-defense) all the time, but this is one time we get to experience the opportunity,” she said. “Definitely, as a female, it helps to have those skills.”

For Sexual Assault Awareness Week, SWI also hosted a “Rape-Free Zone” on Tuesday to stimulate conversation about sexual assault. Tomorrow, SWI will be showing “Speak,” a film about sexual assault, at 8:30 p.m. in the Bulldog Theatre.

http://www.timesdelphic.com/

8th Tehran Intl. Sport Movies and TV Festival kicks off

2009-10-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

The 8th edition of the Tehran International Sport Movies and TV Festival kicked off Tuesday evening with a ceremony held at the Enqelab Sports Complex.

Deputy Culture Minister for Cinematic Affairs, Mohammadreza Jafari-Jelveh and director of the festival Alireza Savar spoke briefly at the opening ceremony.

Jafari-Jelveh said that the festival provides a good opportunity to introduce both cultural and media aspects of sports, “Sport is not only an art, but also a medium itself. Sports has also helped to reflect cultures (of different nations) over the years.”

Savar next noted that this event is created to introduce filmmakers and sport movies to the world, helping to increase the number of films as well, adding, “A total of 200 productions from previous editions were submitted to the Milan Sports Film Festival, and managed to grab several awards.”

“If we try to make better use of domestic potentials, we would be able to establish a better position for ourselves in the world of film productions and sports,” he remarked.

Afterwards, a message from International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge was read at the ceremony. Next, the secretary of the festival Mohammadreza Mulla-Mohammad read the message of Sultan Fahd Abdulaziz, the vice-president of the Islamic Solidarity Sport Federation (ISSF).

The ceremony continued with tributes paid to Mohammad Fuladgar, head of Taekwondo Committee, and filmmaker Reza Nezamdust and Siavash Zarrinabadi.

Filmmaker Majid Majidi was also honored and the ceremony ended with Majidi’s movie “The Colors Fly”.

The festival will continue until September 26 at the Sepideh and Kanun cinemas, and also at the Olympic National Committee.

http://www.tehrantimes.com/Index.asp

A Guide to Tae Kwon Do Belt Colors

2009-10-04T11:09:00.000-07:00

The belts and their colors that are used with Taekwondo aren't just a random assortment of colors that are used to separate the ranks in the martial art. In Taekwondo, each belt color has a meaning that lets fighters known about their advancement and increasing knowledge. Belts are also great for the stylist, as they let the stylist know just how far they have progressed.

The colors of the belts found in Taekwondo vary, as they represent the advancement of rank, as well as the growth of the student. It can take a long time for students to move up the ranks, all depending on their knowledge and how quite they adapt to the techniques and forms of the art.

Below, are the colors and belts of Taekwondo, along with their meaning.

White belt A white belt is the symbol of birth, or the beginning for the stylist. Students that wear white belts are just starting out, searching for the knowledge to continue Taekwondo.

Yellow belt A yellow belt is the first ray of light that shines on the student, giving them new strength to the Taekwondo martial art. Students that have yellow belts have taken a great step in learning, and have opened their mind to new techniques.

Green belt A green belt is the symbol of growth, or a seed as it sprouts from the ground and begins to grow into a plant. Students with green belts are continuing along the path of Taekwondo, learning to develop further and redefine every technique they have been taught.

Blue belt A blue belt represents a blue sky, with the plant continuing to grow upwards, heading for the sky. Students with blue belts continue to move higher in ranks, as the plant continues to grow taller. Students at this stage will also be given additional knowledge of Taekwondo so that their mind and body can continue to grow and develop.

Red belt The red belt is the heat of the sun, with the plant continuing the path upwards toward the sun. Students that possess red belts are higher in rank, as they have acquired a lot of the knowledge in the art of Taekwondo. Red belts also tell the students to be cautious, as they gain more knowledge and their physical techniques increase.

Black belt A black belt is the best of the best. It symbolizes the darkness that is out there beyond the light of the sun. Once the student is given a black belt and begins to train other students, he will teach all that has been taught to him. Black belts recognize the best students, as they continue to teach others the art of Taekwondo, and continue the never ending cycle of training.

Elvin Rowe

Hometown Heroes Could Compete in Chicago Olympics

2009-10-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

These kids could be fighting for home-town gold if Chicago lands the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Jacob Aquino and Arthur Kopilevich, both from Palatine, are Taekwondo phenoms -- and they’re just 12 and 11 years old.

“These guys are the best in the country, and they’re the best in the world,” team manager Skip Valle said.

Supporting Valle's claim: Last February, Kopilvich and Aquino, who train every day at Teamforce dojo in Palatine, were the youngest competitors ever to win gold medals in the 2009 U.S. Open Taekwondo Championships in Las Vegas.

They each fought their way through seven single-elimination rounds against fighters from 50 countries.

That impressive display helped earn Kopilvich and Aquino a place on the Amateur Athletic Union's first Taekwondo National Cadet Team. The butt-kicking duo are among only 22 fighters in the nation to be selected.

But that’s just the beginning, Valle said.

“There’s nobody in Illinois that can beat them, nobody in the country can beat them and out of 50 countries nobody can beat them” Valle said.

"These are the guys you're going to see in 2016 (Olympics).”

Kopilvich agrees.

"If the Olympics are going to be in Chicago in 2016, I want to compete and get a gold medal," Kopilevich, who started training at 5-years-old, said.

"This is the most elite black belt fighting club, which is why I came here. When I'm on the floor and I knock (my opponent) out, I realize how good my potential is."

http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/

Players help Manju

2009-10-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

Taekwondo player Manju Tuladhar, who won a silver medal in SAF games and a bronze medal in Asian Taekwondo Championship, received financial support for the treatment of her damaged kidneys.

Taekwondo players from the US provided her with Rs 2,87,308, she said amidst a press conference on Wednesday. She thanked all her well-wishers who have offered financial help for her dialysis. She has undergone dialysis for 21 times. It costs Rs 4500 for each dialysis.

“I am glad that all of you have been so kind. I feel proud to be a player,” she said. Tuladhar also informed that her kidneys transplant operation would cost around Rs 20-22 lakhs which her family cannot afford.

http://www.myrepublica.com/portal/index.php

Black belts awarded

2009-09-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

ON Saturday, September 12, seven young local Taekwondo students were awarded their black belts by Master Shane Mckeahnie, head instructor of Strike Martial Arts in Ballina.

Alanna Nesbitt, Oscar Williams, Tanisha Faulks, Isabel Mayo, Isaac Mayo and Joe Norton were all awarded their 1st Dan black belts.

Lily Brand was awarded her 2nd Dan.

This was the biggest black belt grading conducted since Strike moved into their purpose-built school in 2007.

Master Shane was very proud of the way the students conducted themselves on the day.

“All seven students showed enormous focus and physical ability demonstrating the skills they have learnt over a number of years,” he said.

Alanna Nesbitt was the youngest at only 10 years old to be awarded her black belt. She is a current member of the high-performance team representing Queensland at the national championships in October.

Family and friends came from as far away as Sydney to witness the grading.

http://www.ballinaadvocate.com.au/

Taekwondo is Not Taekwondo Without Its Kicks

2009-09-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

This article explains a few things about tae kwon do, and if you're interested, then this is worth reading, because you can never tell what you don't know.

The kicks used in Taekwondo sparring are more striking than in any other martial art. Even though the kicks in poomse are simpler than the ones used in sparring, they can be equally as impressive if executed properly.

Also, a good, solid front kick is more impressive than an impromptu tornado or double roundhouse kick. What is it that makes a great taekwondo kick?

1. Balance.

Balance may not be seem as obvious as you think. And balance is more than just not ending up on the floor. It is a matter of fluidity, of gracefulness, of naturalness.

With a properly balanced kick, the supporting foot does not wobble, the hands do not flail about, and the athlete does not rush to complete the kick.

Also, the athlete begins and ends the technique in the proper stances without having to correct the stances to accommodate the kick.

Practice moving within your stances. When you feel comfortable doing simple things within your stances, you should try to kick from one stance into another.

2. Proper form.

Having proper form is a requirement to having a beautiful kick. Proper form may be defined as the correct positions to which the entire body enters as it performs a kick from start to finish.

It is wise to talk with your instructor or other certified professional martial artist to learn the more articulate details of proper form. They will have the answers to any questions that you may have.

Those of you not familiar with the latest on tae kwon do now have at least a basic understanding. But there's more to come.

3. Control.

The kick in Taekwondo is not supposed to be like that of a whip. It does not have to be so fast that it cannot be seen.

Instead, the kick is to be relished and beheld as the single most attractive feature of Taekwondo. It is therefore necessary to control the kick. Controlling the kick involves the ability to freeze the kick for a split second at full extension.

This 밼reeze?is the life of the kick. It is the most memorable and beautiful part of the kick. Controlling the kick is not that easy though. Usually it involves much concentration and many years of practice.

Form is a must to both control and power. If you are not sure that you are doing the kick with proper form yet, keep working on the form part before you begin working on the control part.

Control takes some muscle development and patience, but it is well worth all the effort in the end.

4. Power.

Nothing is worse than seeing someone perform a kick with great form, balance, and control, but with no power.

If this is the case, that person is better off as ballet dancer than a taekwondo practitioner. There is no such thing as an excellent kick that has no power.

Take note that proper form is needed to achieve control. And control is the factor that leads to power.

Bear in mind also that if you try to develop power without mastering the proper control first, it may result to permanent damage to your joints. So be very careful.

The process for developing power in a taekwondo kick is very similar to developing control in that same kick.

Hopefully the sections above have contributed to your understanding of tae kwon do. Share your new understanding about tae kwon do with others. They'll thank you for it.

William Doyle

LC junior will stand tall for USA Taekwondo team

2009-09-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

At a thin 5-foot-5, junior Christian Medina never is mistaken for a football player while walking the halls at Lake Central High School in St. John.

He doesn't play soccer or baseball, and he's no boxer. But Medina certainly packs a punch -- with his hands and feet.

Medina's sparring expertise earned him a spot on the USA Taekwondo Junior National team. He'll represent the United States at the Pan Am Championships from Nov. 19-23 in El Salvador. A welterweight (130-138 pounds), he's one of 10 American boys and 10 girls, ages 14-17, competing.

Medina won a silver medal in sparring at the U.S. Open Tae-kwondo Championships in Las Vegas in February. He's been busy since, earning a spot on the national team.

Medina first qualified in Illinois, then made the top four at National Junior Olympics to earn a trip to Colorado Springs, Colo., for a fight-off. He was unbeaten in round-robin sparring.

Medina is a fourth-degree black belt who started training at age 4. Why? His father, Luciano Medina, also is his instructor. Dad is a sixth-degree black belt grandmaster and owns Champion Taekwondo in Chicago, where Christian trains.

Luciano credits "explosiveness and technique" for his son's success. He's also turned a negative, his short stature, into a positive.

"Christian knows how to fight inside," Luciano said. "Being short, he often has a psychological edge. Opponents see him and think they'll have an easy match, going against a short, little kid. But when he steps into the ring, he takes charge."

Christian said he's almost always the shortest person in his class.

"Taller kids tend to kick long and have trouble bending their legs," he said. "I know how to fight inside really well."

Christian said not every LC student knows his name.

"But most know what I do; they call me the 'Karate Kid,' " he said with a smile. "I'm friends with everybody at school."

* How bout a blast from the past? Former boys basketball players from three Porter County Conference schools will help rival Kouts raise money for bleachers for its new gym during Saturday's South County Reunion Games.

Host Kouts' team of 1980s players will face Boone Grove '80s players at 6 p.m. Kouts' 1990s players play Hebron at 7:15, and Kouts' players from the 2000s meet Morgan Township at 8:30.

The $5 fee is for a good cause and will bring back memories.

http://www.post-trib.com/index.html

Taekowndo Park in Muju, Korea to House World Taekwondo Academy

2009-09-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

The Taekwondo Park in Muju, South Korea, whose ground-breaking ceremony took place on Sept. 4, 2009, will house the World Taekwondo Academy, a global taekwondo education and research center designated by the World Taekwondo Federation.

The Taekwondo Park, which will serve as the mecca of takwondo worldwide, is scheduled to open in 2013, with a total construction cost of $185 million.

The ground-breaking ceremony drew about 1,500 people from at home and abroad, with the attendance of WTF President Chungwon Choue and Mr. Dai-soon Lee, chairman of the Taekwondo Promotion Foundation, which is in charge of the construction and operation of the Taekwondo Park.

Among the dignitaries were Korean Prime Minister Seung-soo Han; Mr. Wan-joo Kim, governor of North Jeolla Province; Mr. Dae-ki Kim, the second vice minister of the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mr. Yong-sung Park, president of the Korean Olympic Committee; and Mr. Sye-kyun Chung, chairman of the main opposition Democratic Party.

The event, which took place on the 2009 Taekwondo Day, also attracted four members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC): Mr. Ivan Dibos from Peru, Mr. Phillip Walter Coles from Australia, Mr. Samih Moudallal from Syria, and Mr. Dae-sung Moon from Korea.

About 650 taekwondo leaders, including 70 foreign taekwondo masters, attended the ceremony. Eight taekwondo grandmasters, who are over the age 70 and have served abroad over 30 years, received citations from the Korean culture, sports and tourism minister. 18 other taekwondo masters also received citations.

Taekwondo Promotion Foundation Chairman Lee, who also serves as a vice president of the WTF, made a brief history of the Taekwondo Park project, followed by congratulatory speeches by Korean Prime Minister Han and North Jeolla Province Governor Kim.

During the ceremony, VIPs wrote some congratulatory words on Korean paper to mark the occasion, which will be later inscribed on the cornerstone of the Taekwondo Park. The highlight of the event was when VIPs pushed the button to ignite the blast to break the ground for the Taekwondo Park.

“On the occasion of the 2009 Taekwondo Day, I would like to offer my congratulations on the ground-breaking of the Taekwondo Park,” said WTF President Choue in a video-taped message for the participants in the event.

“The World Taekwondo Academy, which will be located in the Taekwondo Park, will serve as an international academic center of the WTF for studies, education and research of taekwondo,” he said.

Dr. Choue said, “The WTA, the Korean version of the International Olympic Academy (IOA) for the Olympic sport of taekwondo, will be the home of about 70 million taekwondo practitioners around the world.”

The WTF Rules and Regulations stipulates, “The WTF designates the World Taekwondo Academy in Korea to function as an international academic center of the WTF for studies, education and research of taekwondo.”

On Aug. 15, 2009, an international symposium on the development of taekwondo curriculum for the WTA was held at the University of Berkeley in the United States. The results of the symposium will be presented at the 2nd International Symposium on Taekwondo Studies on Oct. 12 and 13, 2009 on the occasion of the 2009 WTF World Taekwondo Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark.

“To meet the growing educational demands worldwide, a new educational system is required. That is WTA. WTA is an educational institute, where leaders from all social standings, students and professionals related to taekwondo spread taekwondo spirit and Olympic spirit, and study taekwondo philosophy,” said a participants in the symposium.

The WTF designated Sept. 4 as Taekwondo Day at its General Assembly in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in 2006, and has since marked the day. On Sept. 4, 1994, the IOC decided to adopt taekwondo as an official sport of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.

In 2007, the Korean government enacted a law on taekwondo promotion and the establishment of the Taekwondo Park. On Sept. 4, 2008, the Korean government and the four taekwondo organizations, the WTF, the Kukkiwon, the Korean Takwondo Association, and the Taekwondo Promotion Foundation, jointly celebrated the Taekwondo Day.

Abdul Majid, Abdullah triumph in national karate championships

2009-09-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

Dubai: Mohammad Abdul Majid and Marwan Abdullah took the top honours in the Kumite and Kata categories at the end of the UAE National Team Karate Championships, held at Al Mizhar here on Friday.

Daeej Raisi, vice-president of the UAE Taekwondo and Karate Federation, was the chief guest alongside Iqbal Othman, an official from the sponsors of the event, Iffco - the company behind the Tiffany range of products.

The race for honours in the Kumite was evenly contested but Abdul Majid held a narrow edge due to his superior reach.

Though going down 2-3 to Khalid Sulaiman during the preliminary round, Abdul Majid staged a good recovery to score handsome wins against Mohammad Khamis and young Ahmad Salem to finish ahead of both of them on points and grab first place honours.

Sulaiman followed in second place, while Mohammad Sulaiman took third place honours and completed the podium placings.

In the Kata, Abdullah was streets ahead of his opponents. The 17-year-old won 5-0 against Salem and Khalid Sadek to reach the finals of the event.

Abdullah Eisa beat Humaid Chamis 4-1 and Hamad Al Najar 3-2 to set up a meeting in the final against the double gold medal winner at last month's GCC Karate Championships in Bahrain.

The UAE National Team Karate Championships were held to assist the national squad's preparations for the upcoming Asian competition in China.

National taekwondo clinic begins

2009-08-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

Bangalore: A National taekwondo clinic organised under the Olympic Solidarity Programme began at Sree Kanteerava indoor stadium here. The week-long programme is aimed at updating the Indian coaches with latest trends in the sport.

The World Taekwondo Federation has sent a Fifth Dan, Choi Se Min to supervise the course. “It is our effort to ensure that our coaches are exposed to latest trends and this programme would go a long way in helping them attain international standards”, said Praveen Kumar, Secretary General of the Taekwondo Federation of India.

About 50 coaches from all over the country are attending the meet and TFI is more concerned with quality of training in smaller centres, where there is enough interest but dearth of coaches had hampered its effort to popularise the sport in such centres.

“It is easy to train coaches than athletes, as they grasp the techniques much quicker and it also helps them to pass on that knowledge to their wards”, said the Korean trainer Choi Se Min.

The sessions are split into theory and on-court demonstrations with Korean trainer himself sparring with the Indian coaches. “We have so far gone through some of the principles governing offence and defence tactics and physical fitness. The trainees would be put through advanced techniques as the clinic progresses”, he added.

The trainer also emphasised on the need to participate in more international events. “It is through good competition that one can improve the skills, and that can be obtained only through better international exposure”, said Mr. Min.

The Karnataka Taekwondo Association, which is hosting the clinic, is among the more active associations on the National scene and it plans to hold a South Zone meet shortly.

Hindu Times

Nepal Army undergoes revolution

2009-08-27T07:18:00.000-07:00

More than 200 years after remaining the main prop of Nepal's royal dynasty, the army, dominated by the country's elite and the aristocracy, is
now undergoing a revolution itself with its chief to come from the rank of commoners for the first time in its history.

On Monday, the controversial army chief, Gen Rookmangud Katawal, who opposed the entry of the Maoist guerrillas in the national army and caused the downfall of the Maoist government, goes on leave to be followed by retirement next month.

Prior to that, on Sunday, he will hand over charge to his successor, Lt Gen Chhatramansingh Gurung, the first chief of the Nepal Army to come from the indigenous tribes. In the past, Nepal's army chiefs had always been chosen from the three elite classes: the Shahs, allied to the royal dynasty, the Ranas, allied to the former hereditary prime ministers, and the Chhetris.

Though Katawal himself was a commoner, he had been adopted by King Mahendra, deposed king Gyanendra's father, and had the backing of the palace. Gurung, who has received his military training from institutions in Dehra Dun, the US and China, has a squeaky clean image. He also holds a black belt in taekwondo.

Though Katawal exits next week, his legacy of unrest however lives on through the resumed protests by the Maoists who from Friday began a second blockade of parliament. The previous siege, started in May after Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda resigned as prime minister, had lasted for over two months and caused the peace process to be badly obstructed.

The renewed obstruction, Prachanda has warned, could prevent the new constitution from coming into effect next year. Before he left for London on Saturday, Prachanda also said the Maoist protests would not be assuaged by Katawal's retirement.

"We have asked the government to prove that it puts civilian supremacy above the military," the Maoist chief said. "If Katawal had been removed before going into retirement, it would have been a positive gesture."

Santa Cruz ninja looks to spread ancient teachings online

2009-08-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

According to legend, in 14th century Japan, land owners looking to protect their riches began to contract warriors willing to go against the code of the samurai. Assassins trained in the art of illusion and espionage, these men and women practice ninjutsu -- the art of stealth. They were known as ninjas.

Seven hundred years later, just 300 people can truly call themselves ninjas. Mark Roemke of Santa Cruz is one of them.

But while Roemke, 39, is skilled in the art of ninjutsu, he differs in several ways from his ancestors. For one, he's an electrician, not an assassin. Secondly, instead of keeping ninjutsu in its traditional shroud of secrecy, Roemke is trying to take his teachings public.

Roemke has created the Web site Ninja-Learning-Network.com, where martial arts enthusiasts can learn about the ancient art of Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu and share their own resources, enhancing the online training experience for both beginners and experts.

It's a modern approach to an ancient art, but Roemke sees no problem with it. He said he believes the art form itself must remain intact, but the methods of teaching have to evolve in order to reach students in the far corners of the world.

"Even today in Japan's own culture, ninjas are often considered to be a myth," said Roemke. "The secret is that it's not a secret anymore."

In the past, only a select few were given the privilege to learn from a grandmaster. That changed about 40 years ago, when grandmaster Maasaki Hatsumi of Noda, Chiba in Japan realized that because of its shroud of secrecy, ninjutsu had the potential to fall off the martial arts map. Hatsumi, the head of the prominent martial arts organization Bujinkan and the lineage holder of several forms of martial arts, decided to unveil the ninja practices to the general public and began teaching.

Hatsumi, whom Roemke refers to as a "revolutionary rebel," was the first to let foreigners in on ninjutsu practices. Today 95 percent of his students, including Roemke, are not Japanese.

Born and raised in upstate New York, Roemke began practicing martial arts at the age of 7, beginning with traditional Korean taekwondo. When he was 18, he witnessed a ninjutsu demonstration, in which weapons such as swords and bo-shurikens [throwing daggers] were used. Immediately, he said, he became enchanted by this legendary, almost mythical, martial art.

Roemke earned his fifth-degree black belt in 2002 by participating in a soke test administered by Hatsumi. During a soke test, the student faces away from the master while the master swings a sword at the student. The student only passes the test if he "senses" the direction of the sword and evades it completely.

Over the past seven years, Roemke has taken Hatsumi's idea and moved it to the Web. From his dojo in Soquel, he conducts live online classes where students can learn from him and ask questions through live webcams. The Digital Dojo via webcam has been up for two months. For the more timid who just want an idea of what it takes to become a ninja, the Web site offers a free curriculum for all belts up to the first-degree black belt.

"Most people still aren't aware that the art form of ninjutsu' or ninja' is accessible to everyone now," he said in a statement. "We started the Santa Cruz Bujinkan Dojo about 10 years ago to get people excited about this form of martial art, but it's only now that technology will let us celebrate it with the whole world."

Roemke's ultimate goal is to create an online community that is fully dedicated to martial arts similar to that of a real-life community in a dojo. Roemke visits Hatsumi in Japan twice a year and said he is always surprised to find such a wide range of students. There, ninjutsu masters from around the world share styles and methods.

"I'm just this mellow Santa Cruz guy, and I'm training with officers from the DEA and Israeli soldiers," Roemke said. "But the thing is, we're all family there."

"Through every encounter," he added, "we reach enlightenment together."

Roemke said this enlightenment is what ninjutsu is all about. That's what he wants to present online for anyone to experience.

Through this, Roemke finds himself at the forefront of the new online ninja revolution, which could bring about a unique opportunity.

Though Hatsumi is said to move like a limber 19-year-old in the dojo, the reality of his age, 79, is that he won't be able to fill his role forever. There is tension on the subject of who will become the next grandmaster of the tradition. For his part, Roemke believes anyone who can find a way to revitalize a dying, ancient art will definitely find himself on the list of potential successors.

But Roemke's not waiting for the promotion to share lessons that long ago would have been kept secret.

"We are really excited to be talking to a local youth group right now about bringing in young people who really need something ultra cool to help them learn about their personal potential," he said in an e-mail. "Under the sort of mentorship that is inherent in ninja study, we can really help them. It's actually pretty easy, too, in a way. It has fewer rules and structures compared to other martial arts, it encourages people to explore their own techniques based on simple concepts."

The trick is to preserve old tradition in a modern frame.

Jason Eisenberg
Santa Cruz Sentinel

Taekwondo What and Why

2009-08-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

"One could see from our shock loss to Guatemala in the recent tournament in Egypt that the reserve players are not good enough. I wanted to give every player a chance, but unfortunately this backfired, because we did not have the players from the bench to do the job." - Nigeria's U-20 Coach, Samson Siasia bemoaning the team's lack of quality substitutes on the team's friendly.

"He is just the type of player that we were looking for to complement Grafite and Edin Dzeko. He is not only quick, but he has also proven how dangerous he is in front of goal." - Armin Veh, the coach of Bundesliga defending Champions, VFL Wolfsburg on the purchase of Obafemi Martins from Newcastle.

"Everyone knows what happened but for me it's a little bit more difficult to explain. I am feeling much better now and I want to recover as soon as possible to get back behind the wheel of a Ferrari." - Ferrari F1 driver, Felipe Massa after being released from hospital following an accident which resulted in a double head fracture.

"The federation only gave us approval to represent the country. Do you know that I spent ₦700,000 to feature in the tournament? At a stage, some Korean officials asked us the whereabouts of Nigerian officials. I told them we were told to represent the country and they told us that we must provide a coach, player and two delegates." - Taekwondo Coach Raheem Hassan commenting on the neglect of the Taekwondo association in 2006 despite the fact that he funded and represented Nigeria at an international championship in Korea.

"I don't think it is over for us in the competition because the defeat last weekend has further strengthened the team. All we need to do now is to work harder and win all our remaining matches, including going to Mali to beat Stade Malien. It is very possible. All we need is encouragement from Nigerians." - Bayelsa United's defender Chibuzor Okonkwo says that the team will still qualify from the group.

We have the passion to beat every team in Libya, but the stuff of Hakeem Olajuwon is not there yet among these players in the team. We will get there very soon." - John Lucas, newly contracted American coach declared that he was yet to see the likes of Hakeem Olajuwon in the national men's basketball team.

"He played with so much maturity for a 17-year-old and he makes the game looks easy and that is an art. It's something that you are born with and he's going to be a massive talent." - Former Arsenal player, Ray Parlour commenting on the undoubted talent of Jack Wilshire who has broken into the Arsenal first team for the 2009/2010 season.

"In my 23 years working in England there is not a person I would put an inch above Bobby Robson." - Alex Ferguson mourning the passing of Bobby Robson at the age of 76.

Web 234next

An encouraging Night Out for the community

2009-08-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

oward County police celebrated its annual National Night Out festivities by opening a new satellite office in the Wilde Lake Village Center Tuesday evening.

The satellite office will join other satellite offices in the Columbia villages of Harper’s Choice, Long Reach and Oakland Mills as well as in North Laurel, Police Chief William McMahon said.

Local residents said the new office might give a boost to a village center badly in need of help.

“This shopping center, it was kind of dying,” said Hamlet Hartoni, of Owen Brown, who was watching his son perform in a Taekwondo demonstration that was part of the Wilde Lake festivities. He noted that the closing of the Giant supermarket in 2006 hurt the village center and said the police satellite office could help rejuvenate it.

“When they closed that Giant, it really slowed down,” Hartoni said.

Kevin Agahi, 36, owner of Wilde Lake Martial Arts Academy, said that during the summer young people congregated in his gym and around the village center.

He said he had concerns for their safety that the new satellite office had helped alleviate.

“It makes it easier,” he said.

As part of the 26th annual National Night Out, police departments across the country sponsored block parties for the public in an effort to foster stronger ties between the police and the communities they serve.

Howard County’s four other police satellite offices also hosted parties, police said, along with about 20 other communities in Howard County.

About 50 law enforcement, local government officials and civilians attended the Wilde Lake kick-off.

Chief McMahon and County Executive Kenneth Ulman addressed the crowd, explaining the new satellite office and extolling the virtues of the National Night Out.

The festivities included the Taekwondo demonstration, and police and civilians milled around eating pizza and chatting.

The new office will be staffed by Officer Anthony Nigro, who will work with local businesses, residents and community associations. Nigro will supplement the patrol officers and will work on long-term solutions for crime problems in the area, McMahon said.

Nigro said he applied for the job because it offered him the chance to work with both patrol officers and the community.

“This office gives me a unique opportunity to assist patrol officers, but also be a resource for the community,” he said.

McMahon said another new satellite office will be opened in Owen Brown within two months.

Kendall Fedor, 52, of Wilde Lake, happened upon the National Night Out event by accident.

“I came around the corner and went, `Whoa!” she said.

Fedor said she was concerned that vacant store fronts could lead to increased crime. “We miss our Giant,” she said. “We really need a supermarket around here.”

Explorehoward.com

Martial Arts Athlete Escaped from Jail

2009-08-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

A MARTIAL ARTS athlete yesterday escaped prison by the skin of his teeth when his medical history was brought to the court’s attention minutes before he was sentenced.

Andreas Aristidou, 26, who was found guilty of assaulting and causing actual bodily harm to a Nicosia traffic warden in August last year, was sentenced to 45 days imprisonment suspended for three years.

Nicosia district judge Michalis Ambizas appeared to take into consideration the fact that Aristidou had suffered epileptic seizures in 2004 induced by a brain tumour.

In 2005 surgery to remove the growth had only been partially successful, Aristidou’s lawyer told the court. He said his client had been taking medication three times a day ever since in preparation for a second operation and was under the supervision of the Neurology and Genetics Institute. This tumour had also affected his performance as a taekwondo athlete and explained why he had won no more medals since 2001 when he brought home the bronze during a taekwondo competition in Spain, he said.

The new information was brought to the court’s attention at the eleventh hour. The judge had been due to read out his sentence at 9.30am and was instead forced to review his decision based on the additional facts presented.

The defence lawyer said the information had only been brought to his attention by his client’s mother in the last four days. He told the court his client had not felt it necessary to disclose his personal medical history as part of his defence. Ambizas pointed out there was quite a lot that had not come to the court’s attention until now.

The judge also heard Aristidou had settled out of court a pending claims suit with the traffic warden and that both the latter and the taekwondo expert and had fully resolved their differences. Apparently the plaintiff received €2,170 in compensation which he received yesterday shortly before the morning procedure began.

The court also heard the taekwondo champion, who has represented Cyprus abroad and works for the Cyprus Sports Organisation, expressed his regret “even at this late hour” for his actions.

Aristidou, who is married with a 17-month-old baby and had been held in custody since last Friday when he was found guilty, stood in the dock looking less self-assured. Gone was the cocky half smile during last week’s appearance. There was also a small cut on his forehead above his right eyebrow as he gripped on to the dock railing. Sitting with a long face in the back of the courtroom was his father; his wife and mother were absent.

In light of the new information the judge asked for a 90-minute recess. Ambizas came back at midday with the suspended sentence without first stressing Aristidou’s behaviour had “no place in society”. The judge said what worsened the 26-year-old man’s “unacceptable reaction” to receiving a parking fine from an attendant who had simply been doing his job was the fact that he was a taekwondo athlete and trainer. He said society had come to expect more from people like that who should know better.

Asked later whether he was happy with the final outcome in light of the circumstances Aristidou’s response was succinct: “No.”

The 26-year-old did not elaborate what he meant further and said he was considering filing an appeal.

The incident took place on Themistoclis Dervis Street in August last year when Aristidou parked his car in a handicapped spot and received a fine. The issue quickly escalated into a verbal and physical onslaught, finally concluding with the enraged martial arts expert grabbing the traffic warden by the neck and bringing him to his knees unable to breathe. Thanks to the intervention of eyewitnesses Aristidou was pulled off his victim.

Cyprus Mail

British Open Sees Malta

2009-08-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Members of the Malta Taekwondo Federation (MTF) recently participated in the 12th British International Open Championship, held in Crawley, England.

The Maltese squad, the largest to take part in an overseas taekwondo competition to date, was a mixture of national team members and others from local official clubs.

The British Open attracted over 470 participants from different parts of the world with many countries fielding their best talent.

Despite the strong competition, the MTF members obtained some prestigious results, winning a silver medal and three bronze.

Irina Anastova clinched silver in the senior female category (-47kgs class B).

The bronze medal winners were Kimberly Meli (junior female -55kgs class A), Joel Genuis (peewee male -31kgs class B) and Edward Camillieri (cadet male class B).

Members of the Maltese taekwondo clubs that participated for the first time in this competition also achieved some commendable results.

Mauro Busuttil won a gold medal (senior -72kgs class C) while Megan Maistre Melillo (peewee -35kgs class B), Jamie Maistre Mellillo (cadet -35 kgs class B) and Luke Maistre Melillo (junior -5kgs class B) also left their mark.

The Maltese contingent was led by Brian Saliba, the national coach, and Joseph Azzopardi, club coach and instructor.

Times of Malta

Taekwondo Martial Arts Training Basics : How to Strike in Taekwondo Martial Arts

2009-08-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Lehigh Grand Opening For Taekwondo Fan

2009-08-18T07:02:00.000-07:00

USA Martial Arts Florida celebrated the opening of their new Lehigh Acres training center July 24 and 25 by hosting a two-day seminar featuring local and national instructors, including two karate gold medal winners in the USA National KarateDo Federation National Championships and the Junior Pan Am Games. Seminar attendees were treated to a demonstration of Olympic-level sparring by Tyler Wolfe (17) and Alice Nimmo (15).

Their coach, Jason Sorgi, from Katsu Dojo in Gainesville, Fla., held a sparring clinic as part of the seminar, and students were able to go toe-to-toe with Tyler and Alice.

"It was exciting! Alice is really fast," said Samantha Reach, 9.

The event was attended by students and instructors from around the country, and utilized the full 2,200-plus square feet of mat space. Friday and Saturday seminar sessions were held for youth and adult students, with multiple instructors in each session. A team of instructors from USA Martial Arts in Birmingham, Ala.,, Tim Morgan, Robert Blackston, and Alan Glaze, instructed students in holds, pins, joint locks and grappling using Aikido, Judo and Jujitsu techniques.

Students also practiced self defense with these techniques, and learned a weapons form with the short knife, called a tanto. Students appreciated the opportunity to train with different instructors.

"It was fun with all of the black belts," said Alyssa Herndon, 10.

Rounding out the weekend, several instructors from Koryu Uchinadi Florida, headed by Nick De Paolo, taught self-defense from repeated attacks, including standing and ground defenses. Participants learned a patterned defense drill which included multiple defenses in a sequence.

"It was incredible to be able to train with all of these black belts from different schools in one place," said Mary Kay Cassani, an adult student in the Lehigh training center. "I learned so much in one short weekend, it was amazing."

"We have been truly honored to host these talented individuals for this seminar," said Jeff Reach, president and chief instructor at USA Martial Arts Florida. "By sharing their time, talent and energy with us, our grand opening is a success."

USA Martial Arts Florida is located in the Winn Dixie Plaza on Homestead Rd. in Lehigh Acres. Programs include Aikido, Aiki-Judo, Iaido, Judo, Jujitsu, Karate, and TaeKwonDo, with classes for ages 3 and up. Family and multi-art discounts are available. For more information call 239.303.DOJO (3656), or visit www.LehighKarate.com.

Lehighacres Citizen

ASC Funding for Taekwondo World Championships

2009-08-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has secured funding from the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) for Australian athletes to compete in the 2009 WTF World Championships being held in Copenhagen in October.

The AOC is the interim governing body for the sport of Taekwondo in Australia.

As a result of this announcement, STA will immediately re-open entries to the World Championship Selections Event being conducted in Canberra on 16 August, in case some athletes did not enter knowing they could not self-fund the approximately $5000 cost of participating in the WTF World Championships.

Athletes have until noon (AEST) on Saturday, 8 August, to submit an entry to the Selection Event if they would now like to enter.

The funding from the ASC will be applied to the costs of entry fees, airfare, accommodation, meals and ground transportation associated with an athlete’s participation in the 2009 WTF World Championships as determined by the ASC.

The winners of each weight division at the Canberra Selections Event will be eligible to have costs covered by ASC Funding, subject to an international performance standard validation undertaken by the Taekwondo Independent Advisory Steering Committee.

The Taekwondo Independent Advisory Steering Committee will comprise of an AOC appointed representative, an ASC appointed representative, and an independent representative based on the recommendation of the ASC and AOC.

Athletes who do not meet the international performance standard will not be eligible to receive ASC Funding and will be required to fund the cost of attending the Championships (as was the case prior to ASC Funding being made available).

The ASC Funding will be administered by the ASC - the AOC will not receive any funding as it is financially independent of all government funding.

Olympics Australia

Taekwondo Martial Arts Training Basics : How to Do a Side Kick in Taekwondo Martial Arts

2009-08-15T11:58:00.000-07:00

Thief Wishes For Cops

2009-08-13T18:58:00.000-07:00

An Italian thief has thanked police for arresting him, which put an end to a beating he was suffering at the hands of Korean tourists who he had robbed in Rome.

"I must thank you - they were massacring me," the 48-year-old criminal said to officers after he was arrested near the Theater of Marcellus, one of the monuments in Rome's historic center.

The thief, from the northern region of Liguria, had stolen a handbag from a woman in a Korean family group taking in the sights. He threatened the family with a knife when he was spotted and then tried to flee.

But two young men in the group chased him for several hundred meters and then sent him crashing with what were said to be taekwondo moves.

They proceeded to disarm the thief and set about administering a beating.

A patrolling police officer then arrived, separated the three and arrested the thief after he heard the story.

"Normally, tourists will just call us and report the incidents," the officer said. "In this case, the two got really excited and could have seriously injured the thief."

The young Koreans left after they got the handbag back while the thief was hauled off to a city jail where robbery charges were laid.

Rome recorded 4,246 cases of armed robbery last year, compared with 5,133 in 2007. The Korean action could lead to another dip.

The Standard HK

Teach Self Defense in School

2009-08-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

Spousal abuse, bullying and date rape are subjects that are debated endlessly. Laws are passed that bring new problems with them. An item showed up in the Weird But True section of the New York Post that hinted at a possible solution to women getting knocked around. The Post reports as follows.

"When Rome cops interrupted a mugging, no one was happier than the mugger, who'd just grabbed a handbag from a woman in a group of Korean tourists.

It turned out everyone in her party was skilled in taekwondo.

"Thank you," he told the cops. "I was being massacred."

In an average New York crowd, what is the chance of all the women knowing marshal arts? This group of Korean women all knew Tae Kwon Do. And look what they were able to do to a purse snatcher. They did not fit into his calculation of estimated risk.

Most public schools have mandatory physical education, usually involving team sports. Imagine what it would be like if judo, karate or one of the other martial arts were offered along with the usual baseball and football. The Israelis have developed Krav Maga, which is an eclectic mix of different martial arts that is designed to be useful for self defense after a minimum of training. Could this lessen the likelihood of abductions, bullying and other forms of violence?

Most forms of self defense also involve an attitude. Self confidence and self assurance have an aura to them that is perceived by would be predators. Whether they are street predators or boyfriends from hell, predators have a sixth sense as to who is a pushover and who is not. It is the self confidence as well as the skills themselves that make safety on the streets and in relationships likely. Attitude modification is helpful not only prospective victims but for those who are likely to be predators as well. Many who abuse others are covering their own insecurities.

I am not saying that football, baseball and other group sports should be abandoned. But it is a sad waste of time to use the entire time allotted to physical education in schools used for something with no practical use. When someone is coming at you with a knife, basketball does not give you any additional choices. Krav Maga does. That is what it was designed for.

Self defense arts are not the only solution to problems of street and relationship violence. But they are an important component. Young people who feel assured that they can stand up to bullies are less likely to become bullies. And that is as good as a home run any day.

Rant Rave

Olympic Karate Overdue For Donovan

2009-08-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

Donovan was the coach and manager of the national karate team for more than 30 years until his retirement in 2008 - during which time he helped Great Britain to five consecutive World Team Championship victories.

All those achievements however, would pale in significance to the chance to go for gold on the Olympic stage - something Donovan was deprived throughout his career.

Karate came mighty close to Olympic inclusion in 2005 when, along with squash, the martial art was put to a controversial two-thirds majority vote at the IOC Congress in Singapore - neither eventually made the cut for London 2012.

But on August 13 karate will be in direct competition with squash, roller sports, baseball, softball, golf and rugby sevens as those seven sports are cut down to two ahead of the IOC Congress in Copenhagen in October.

This time around, the two sports will only need a simple majority in the Danish capital to ensure their inclusion at 2016 - something Donovan is convinced is long overdue.

And the current technical adviser to the English Karate Federation is adamant the Olympics is just the carrot karate needs to sustain its growth in the UK.

"There's not a sports club in the country where you won't find a karate club - or even two or three. It's the tenth most popular sport in the world and there's 50 million people training now," said Donovan.

"We should have been included in the Olympics many years ago - it's long overdue. We thought we would get in a few years ago but it wasn't to be.

"It would have been great to have competed on home soil - we would have loved it - but we'll keep fighting on.

"Rugby and golf are professional sports - they shouldn't be allowed in the Olympics. Karate is one of the most popular sports in the world and that's often forgotten.

"It would mean so much for the young people of this country who would have a goal at the end of the line.

"Karate has a rich history in this country and we've been very successful and would be near the top of the medal table that's for sure.

"I'm sure everyone in karate would use the Olympics as their end goal. 2016 is quite a few years away but it would give the sport a boost in this country both now and when the time comes.

"Those competing in 2016 will not even be in the national team now so it'll raise the profile of karate in this country even more.

"We've got all the structure and facilities in place with the English Karate Federation and British Karate Federation, which the EKF falls under."

Opponents to karate's inclusion draw attention to the existence of both judo and taekwondo on the Olympic schedule already and claim a third martial art would be one too many.

That coupled with the tarnished name taekwondo received at the Beijing Olympics for sub-standard judging - which prompted Cuba's Angel Valodia Matos to take matters into his own hands (or feet).

But Donovan is keeping his fingers crossed the IOC do not take such a short-sighted approach.

"It's a concern that judo and taekwondo are already in the Olympics but they're completely different sports," he added.

"Karate has at least five times more people taking part worldwide.

"I hope it [the taekwondo controversy in Beijing] does not affect us but karate is completely different to taekwondo.

"You would never get anybody act that way on the mat in karate - it teaches self-control. I hope the IOC look past that.

"I'm really hoping we're successful this time round - I haven't got many nails left - but if we don't then we will still be going forward and marching on. We'd keep trying and would be there again in 2020 until we have our chance."

More than the games - UK

Penury forces kick-boxing champ to sell clothes

2009-08-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

Representing the state on several occasions and winning gold medals have never helped Kashinath Das to support himself and his family.
Poverty has forced this 29-year-old sportsman to live as a make-shift shop owner.

A native of Pinchhapal village in Balasore, Das was among 15 gold-medalists from the state who participated in the recently concluded East Zone Kick-Boxing Championship tournament in Kolkata.

He has won four gold medals in rugby and two in national-level taekwondo championships earlier.

Sadly, despite his talent, he has had to struggle to arrange one square meal each day. With no government aid in sight, he ekes out his living by selling garments in a small makeshift shop in Bhubaneswar .

"Apart from participating in sports tournaments across the country, I have been running a garment shop in the unit-II market building area in the capital city," said Kashinath, who did his graduation from a private college.

"I used to earn Rs 100 to Rs 150 a day which is not enough to manage my family comprising me and my parents. Out of my earnings, I also need to keep some money aside for my trips to participate in the tournaments and I also manage a rugby team at my village," he said.

"After I finished my matriculation in 1997, I came to Bhubaneswar to work as a help in a politician's house. Later, I sold newspapers until a kind-hearted person allowed me to set up a garment stall near his shop in the market building," Das said.

"One day I saw a sportsperson being felicitated at a function inside Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium. That day I decided to become a sportsman and began training under Dipti Ranjan Mohapatra," he said. Later, he learnt rugby and kick-boxing while he completed his graduation.

Kashinath Das is a frustrated man today. "Despite my repeated requests, the government has not helped me in any way. I tried getting into the police, but I was denied a job because I couldn't get good marks in the written exam," he said.

"It will also help if I can get a permanent shop in the market building," he added. This apart, Das wants financial assistance for the girls' rugby team he has started. It is the third such team in the state and has around 30 players who have participated in national championship tournaments and won.

Times of India

Vietnam Will Trained Abroad

2009-08-09T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Vietnam National Track and Field team and the Karatedo team will join training sessions in Kunming, China from August 3 to September 9 and in Tokyo, Japan from August 14 to November 17 respectively.

The track and field team attending the training session in China includes coach Ho Thi Tu Tam together with five athletes namely Truong Thanh Hang, Do Thi Thao, Nguyen Dinh Cuong, Mai Van Tan, Tran Van Thang and Nguyen Van Ly.

It is expected that these training sessions will help Vietnamese athletes well-prepare for the third Asian Indoor Games in Vietnam and the 25th Southeast Asian Games in Laos this year.

Nhandan News

Italian thief rescued from angry tourists

2009-08-09T06:46:00.000-07:00

A thief said thanks to police after his arrest put a stop to a beating from Korean tourists who he attempted to rob.

“I must thank you, they were massacring me,” the 48-year-old told police after he was arrested near the Theatre of Marcellus, in Rome’s historic centre.

The thief, from the northern region of Liguria, stole a handbag from a Korean family. He threatened the family with a knife when he was spotted and then tried to flee.

Two family members in their twenties chased the man for several hundred metres before flooring him with taekwondo moves. They disarmed the thief and continued to beat him.

A patrolling police officer intervened and arrested the thief immediately.

“Normally tourists will just call us and report the incidents,” the officer said. “In this case, the two got really excited and could have seriously injured the thief.”

The thief was transferred to a prison in Rome and will face robbery charges while the Koreans left after retrieving the handbag.

The Roman Forum

Bronze Stories From Asian Martial Arts

2009-08-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

BANGKOK—Taekwondo prospects Jeffrey Figueroa and Marlon Avenido scored huge victories while Karla Alava came up with a close win on Tuesday to assure themselves of bronze medals in the Asian Martial Arts Games.

Figueroa, 23, dominated Abadl Muaadh Najiahmed of Yemen, 7-3, in the quarterfinal round of the bantamweight division, while Avenido, 20, clobbered Vo Huang Giao of Vietnam, 5-1, in the welterweight quarterfinal at the Indoor Stadium Huamark Sport Authority of Thailand.

Alava, 18, had a tougher match but managed a 3-2 win over 20-year-old Natthaya Sangsasiton of Thailand to reach the women’s bantamweight semifinals.

The semifinal matches were set on Tuesday. They are looking to match or surpass Kirstie Elaine Alora’s silver-medal finish in the women’s middleweight on Monday. Judoka Karen Ann Solomon also bagged bronze on Monday.

Kim Hong Sik, the Philippine team’s taekwondo coach, said his athletes did not make any adjustments after the first day when John Paul Lizardo, Alexander Briones and Crizabelle Vargas crashed out one after the other.

“Some days you are lucky, some days you are not,” said Kim. “They just need to do their best.”

Figueroa beat Oken Meitei Mutum of India, 5-0, in the first round while Avenido, a 2007 US Open gold medalist, had a first-round bye.

After her Thai opponent unleashed an axe kick to the head to tie the fight at 2-2 in the third and final round, Alava sneaked in a counter-45 for a 3-2 lead, then escaped with another axe kick that could have merited two points for the Thai.

“Tumama pero daplis lang,” described Alava, a Hotel and Restaurant Management student at the Far Eastern University who is in her first international competition as a senior member of the national team.

In muay at the Nimibutr Building National Stadium, the Filipino bets were eliminated also one after the other.

Light-welterweight Jonathan Polosan lost to Roman Semerin of Kazakhstan, 0-5, and bantamweight Romnick Pabalate was dispatched by Sattra Paleenaram of Thailand via the same score in the first round.

Maria Camille Manalo battles a Chinese on Wednesday, taekwondo’s final day of competition.

Wushu also begins on Wednesday at the Silpa-archa Building Central Stadium in Suphanburi Province with Mary Jane Estimar and Mariane Mariano opening their campaign in women’s sanshou.

Korea leads the medal tally with eight gold, four silver and two bronze medals, followed by Japan with 5-1-1, Kazakhstan (4-2-1) and Thailand (2-3-5).

Reuben Terrado
Business Mirrors

Fun With Taekwondo For Family

2009-08-08T06:38:00.000-07:00

Parents looking for a way to get their children involved in a healthy activity have found taekwondo as an outlet that each can enjoy together.

For some families in Albert Lea taekwondo is a sport the entire family can enjoy and many participate together through Albert Lea Community Education at the Family Y on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The sport, which preaches discipline, lends itself well to parents with young children as an activity they can do together.

Instructor Bruce Thimmesch was first introduced to the sport when his daughters, Alexandra and Jessica, wanted to give it a try. His daughters asked if he would join them in the class and eventually all three became black belts.

“I had the rules with my daughters, if you test for your orange belt, you have to test for your black belt,” he said. “So therefore when I spoke those rules to them, I followed it myself.”

Thimmesch always had a desire to learn about the sport, which originated in Korea and has become the most popular form of martial arts, and when he daughters expressed an interest it gave him an opportunity to experience the sport.

“It boils down to a means for self-defense,” Thimmesch said. “But it’s a lot deeper than just being able to go out there and beat someone up. You have to have a lot of respect for each other.”

Thimmesch has been involved with taekwondo for six years now and runs the Albert Lea taekwondo club now. He said the time the sport allows him to spend with his daughters is invaluable and has made the family tighter.

“Sitting around you can be tight, but you get the actual interaction and seeing them progress and how you progress,” Thimmersch said.

“It’s definitely a world of difference.”

The family interaction aspect of the sport led Joshua Lair to get involved with taekwondo with his sons Tyler and Brady. It’s one of the few sports where father and son can be at the same level and work together on improving. Joshua and Tyler are both yellow belts after five months time while Brady is a white belt.

“The reason I started this was to be with them,” Joshua said. “They were kind of shy and I started doing it with them and now they came out of their shell.”

The repetition of movement stresses discipline while respect, honor and integrity are tenets of the sport. At a young age those can be good lessons to learn.

“It amounts to a life change really,” Thimmesch said. “You become basically at peace with yourself. I’ve seen some people that were quick to temper calm down faster.”

Thimmesch admits he was quick to temper at times, but through taekwondo he has learned to calm down. He patiently works with students as they try to master the number of moves involved with the sport. His daughters are on hand as well to assist him. Thimmesch is a third degree black belt while his daughters are second degree black belts.

It’s a sport Thimmesch says everyone can do and that certainly helps get families involved.

Nick Gerhadt
Alber Lea Tribune

Keep Sports Free From Politics

2009-08-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

Nepal´s only remaining hope for medal in taekwondo in the First Asian Martial Arts Games being held in Bangkok collapsed after Sabina Maharjan lost in the final event of taekwondo on Tuesday.

Sabina Maharjan playing in the 51-55 kg category, lost to S Shradarova of Kazakhstan in tough fight. Sabina was leading 3-2 five seconds before the final whistle in the third round, but she lost the advantage and her opponent won the vital point. Both players failed to secure any point in fourth round as the match was decided by the referee´s decision which went against Sabina.

Sabina was rushed to the hospital after the match as she had injured her left hand during bout. Nepali team doctor Saroj Krishna Shrestha said her injury in not serious and she can play after two weeks of rest.

Republica Sports

Indonesia Grab 3 Aces in Asian Martial Arts

2009-08-08T06:33:00.000-07:00

Taekwondo brought Indonesia some joy on Tuesday, though a more familiar martial art could prove more fruitful today.

Basuki Nugroho and Catur Yuni Riyaningsih each earned bronze medals for Indonesia at the Asian Martial Arts Games in Bangkok.

Basuki fell in the men’s welterweight semifinals, while Catur lost in the women’s welterweight last four.

Basuki lost 7-2 to old rival Marlon Avenido of the Philippines. He beat the Filipino at the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, the latest of their many matchups, but Avenido managed to exploit his foe’s one key weakness on Tuesday.

“Basuki injured his right knee just before going to Thailand and Avenido took advantage of that by forcing Basuki to use more of his weaker leg in that match,” Indonesia taekwondo team manager Joseph Hungan told the Jakarta Globe on Tuesday. “Besides, they’ve met many times before, so each knew what to expect.”

Avenido lost 5-2 in the final to Korean Lee Gyu Jin.

Catur earned the second bronze of the day after she lost 6-4 to Shaden Thweib of Jordan in the semifinals. Catur made her way to the last four with a 5-2 defeat of Asia Batool of Pakistan.

In men’s bantamweight, Mery Wandra ended his run in the last eight as he lost 4-1 to Mahmood Adel Hameed of Bahrain.

Overall, the taekwondo team contributed one silver medal and three bronzes to Indonesia since the Games began on Sunday.

Despite missing out on the gold medal, Joseph said he was pleased with his team’s performance.

“With only eight athletes, we won one silver and three bronze medals, so I’m satisfied. It shows a better improvement than in last year's Asian Championship,” he said.

Indonesia sent 16 athletes to the Asian Championship in China last year and came home with only one silver, from Fransisca Valentina in women’s fin class.

These results, on the other hand, gave Joseph optimism about the team’s medal chances at the Southeast Asian Games in Vientiane, Laos, in December.

“Our target is at least to retain the gold medal Indonesia won at the 2007 Games,” Joseph said. “And I’m optimistic we can.”

Indonesia still has one more medal chance in taekwondo as Nurul Fadilah will compete in the women’s featherweight quarterfinals today.

Pencak silat, Indonesia’s home-grown martial art, could bring even more joy after two Indonesians reached the finals.

Lutfan Budi Santosa defeated Tran Van Toan of Vietnam 4-1 in the men’s B-class semifinals and will meet Jul-omar Abdulhakim of the Philippines today in the final. Abdulhakim earned his berth with a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan’s Jamoliddin Salimjonov.

I Komang Wahyu Purbasari also clinched an E-class finals berth with a 5-0 win over Joemil Solomon of the Philippines. In the final, Wahyu will face Shafiq Muhammad Nor of Singapore, who defeated Sinhkhone Xayaphomma of Laos 3-2.

Indonesia is seventh out of 10 teams in the medals table with one gold medal, two silver and three bronze. Korea leads the table with nine golds, four silver and two bronze, followed by Kazakhstan (5-2-2) and Japan (5-1-1).

Jakarta Globe

Age-Group taekwondo kick off

2009-05-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

The Negros Taekwondo Union-Main, headed by coach JimJim Chua, will host the Visayas Age-Group Taekwondo Championships tomorrow, starting 9 a.m., at the Atrium Gaisano Supermall in Bacolod City.

The tournament will be participated in by 400 taekwondo jins from different taekwondo chapters from the cities of Cebu, Dumaguete, Tacloban, General Santos, Cagayan De Oro, and Bukidnon as well as from the provinces of Samar, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo and host Negros occidental.

Expected to attend the opening of the tournament are Grand Master Sung Chon Hong, father of Philippine Taekwondo, Monsour Del Rosario, taekwondo ambassador of the Philippines; Antonio Lacson, Western Visayas taekwondo regional director and Neg. Occ. 3rd District Board Member Frederick "Man-Man" Ko.*

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2009/May/16/sports.htm

TBB, TBS bets dominate National Elite Taekwondo tilt

2009-05-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines - Blackbelters from the National Capital Region bagged 11 gold medals in the senior men's and women's divisions to dominate the Smart National Elite taekwondo championships Sunday at the Rizal Memorial coliseum.

The Taekwondo Blackbelt Brotherhood (TBB) won six of the eight gold medals at stake while their counterparts in the Taekwondo Blackbelt Sorority (TBS) bagged five gold medals.

Winning the mints for TBB were finweight Joselito Aviles, fly Rikki Cruz Herrera, bantam Jordan Panayas, lightweight Jayson Manalo, welter Rolando Francisco and middleweight Allan Obenza.

In the women's division, TBS campaigners who struck gold were fly County Valenzuela, bantam Karala Jane Alava, feather Vianca Cardona, lightweight Izel Masungsung and welter Marifi Gadit.

Seizing the gold medals in the senior division were Region 3's finweight Thony Rose Parado, Cebu's feather Glenn Lava and Region 4's heavyweight Pierre Anthony Ong.

http://www.gmanews.tv/

Angola wins bronze medal in France Taekwondo Tournament

2009-05-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

Luanda - Angola lifted a bronze medal and held the fourth place in the 13th edition of the national taekwondo open tournament held in Alsace, France, on April 25-26, said Sunday a federation source.

Pascoal Valantino held the third place in the +80 kg, followed by Sandra António (-67 kg) who ranked fourth. Dario Facada was defeated in the preliminary of the competition, won by Iran.

Twenty teams participate in the Open tournament, among them Iran (winner), Monaco, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Turkey and professional clubs in France.

The national delegation, that returned Thursday to the country, was headed by the Taekwondo Federation’s chairman, Nzuzi Ndolumingu.

This has been the first participation of the national team in the tournament which aimed at preparing athletes for the qualifiers for the Olympic Games.

http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/en_us/portal/capa/index.html

Taekwondo Association Gets Korean Embassy Gifts

2009-05-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

The Korean Embassy in Accra has presented taekwondo equipment to the Ghana Taekwondo Association (GTA) as a booster to the national body as it seeks to make the discipline a popular one in the country.

The items worth $ 17,000, is to be used by the association in its training programmes and in competitions nationwide to popularize the sport and attract more practitioners to the discipline.

Ambassador Sun H. Lee, who represents the Republic of Korea in Ghana, made the presentation in Accra yesterday and hoped the items will be put to good use as the nation seeks to become a dominant force across the continent and beyond.

He announced that the Korea Republic will continue to explore other areas in helping Ghana with its forward march in sports and hoped that through the discipline, Ghana’s image would be brightened than before.

In their aim to ensure this, Mr. Lee assured that soon technical experts from Korea would be brought in to help train their Ghanaian counterparts to impact positively on the local scene.

The acting Chief Executive of the National Sports Council (NSC), Worlanyo Agra, received the items on behalf of the GTA and promised that they would be put to good effect as Ghana seeks to strike a good balance with the Republic of Korea.

He called for more of such support believing that it is one of the surest ways of taking the lesser known sports to the doorstep of the Ghanaian and attracts more people to participate in the discipline.

The items included head gears, gloves, fore arm guards and mats among others. They were handed over to the chairman of the GTA, Mr Sampson Annor-Quarshie and the General Secretary,

Charles K. Attah.
http://www.newtimesonline.com/

Youth gain 16 tickets to National Team

2009-05-24T08:28:00.001-07:00

Three members of the Petrolia Bluewater Club are joining their Sarnia colleagues to compete at the Canadian Junior Championships this weekend in Quebec City.

Kaitlin Berdan, 13, and Emilee Berdan, 12, of Oil Springs; and Rachel Irvine, 11, of Petrolia; will join 13 other athletes from the Bluewater Taekwondo Club in Sarnia at the nationals.

"The three of them all work hard five days a week, sometimes six," Master Mark Warburton said of the trio, noting they train at both Bluewater locations on alternate days.

Emilee Berdan will compete in the colour belt competition as a red belt/black stripe. "Emilee is very physically gifted and technically sound. It's been a long road for her to break out of her shell and develop confidence over the last year, but I'd say at the start of this year she broke through," said Warburton. "Now that she's got the drive and hunger to go with her abilities, she has been very dominant lately."

Her older sister Kaitlin will compete in the Poom B featherweight division (46 to 50 kilograms/ 101.2 to 110 pounds). Warburton said Kaitlin has grown quite rapidly into a serious contender over the last year.

"She's a really tough kid, but it took a while for her to fix a lot of bad habits instilled in her before she started succeeding. Now, she has gone from being a 'tough kid' to being 'a tough kid to beat,' which are definitely not the same thing in this sport."

Kaitlin, with two bronze medals and one gold medal from three provincial selection events, finished overall in second place for her weight division.

But Warburton considers her the top bet in the division from all the Ontario girls. "She fought in a different weight division at the first selection, and the girl ranked ahead of her had a gold medal by default. Kaitlin destroyed this girl at the second selection in less than two minutes, so the ranking points system really doesn't have any relevance on who is the best all the time."

Warburton adds "I am confident Kaitlin can win as long as she believes in herself and gives her all."

Irvine, who finished with a first place ranking in the Poom C welterweight division (becoming Ontario champion) will compete in the Poom C middleweight division (48 to 52 kilograms / 105.6 to 114.4 pounds) at the nationals.

"She's moved up two weight divisions, but she's just at the bottom of this one," said Warburton, who doesn't allow younger athletes to drop more than one kilogram to make weight. "It's too unhealthy for them. Older teenagers and adults know how to cut a bit more weight more safely, but these kids are still growing," he said. "Plus, I believe they can beat anybody -- or else I wouldn't put them in there. So I'm not concerned with having them be at really low weights."

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Irvine is growing really fast and has learned to use her reach and distance well, said Warburton. "If you get into her leg range, you're getting hit, and hit hard."

Warburton said he has no doubt Irvine has the potential to not only win this year's junior nationals but also become a top contender in Canada in the future.

"She really listens well and even though she has been successful, it doesn't get to her head at all. She still continues to work hard," said Warburton. "If she still has the same work ethic and positive attitude in a number of years, I can definitely see her on the Canadian national team."

The team departed for Quebec City today and returns on May 19. Warburton, himself a provincial champion and international competitor, skipped out on this year's senior nationals to focus on developing the junior athletes.

Petrolia Topic
http://www.theobserver.ca/

Ultimate Taekwondo team managed to dominate the national championships

2009-05-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

TUEBROOK'S Ultimate Taekwondo Liverpool dominated the National Championship in Manchester.

The 25-strong team came home from the two day event at the Manchester Velodrome with a fantastic haul of six gold medals, four silver and six bronze.

Ultimate Taekwondo, founded in 1998, was also awarded the third place team trophy for the Saturday, the first place team trophy for the Sunday, and the first place team trophy for the entire weekend.

Seven-year-old Holly Wray, produced a fine display to become the club's youngest British champion, picking up gold in the under 23kg category.

Her sister Kayleigh, also performed fantastically, winning silver in the senior under 59kg category, and bronze in the junior category at the same weight level.

The 17-year-old also received the news from BTCB national coach Steven Jennings, that she had been selected to represent Team GB at the European Junior Taekwondo Championship in Sweden at the end of the month.

Ten-year-old Abigail Stones, who retained her title, was also selected to attend a cadet selection camp for the forthcoming European Cadets Championship.

Master Peter Hankin (5th Dan) was extremely proud of his team's performance.
He said: "They have all done fantastically well. There were over 480 people competing over the weekend, so to come home as team champions was a great achievement.

“The team and the children involved have trained very hard and have all stepped up to the challenges facing them. A huge congratulations goes out to all of them.”

Ultimate Taekwondo are now looking forward to their next big event, the Barnsley 1-to-1 Championships on May 31.
All youngsters aged from five upwards are welcome at the Academy. They train every weekday from 6pm to 9pm on West Derby Road, Tuebrook.

http://www.ultimatetkdliverpool.org.uk/

Malaysian Taekwondo having suspend charges

2009-04-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

THE Malaysian Taekwondo Association (MTA) has been suspended pending the formulation of a new constitution to get the national body back on its feet.
Sports Commissioner Datuk Nik Mahmud Nik Yusof said the suspension was necessary to allow the setting up of an ad hoc committee of the various stakeholders in the sport to meet and resolve the long-running MTA saga.

"This is merely a procedural matter to allow for the formation of the ad hoc committee and settle matters pertaining to the constitution and membership," Nik Mahmud said.

"It has been agreed by all the parties involved and letters of appointment for the ad hoc committee will be sent out this week."

MTA has been embroiled in a leadership dispute for almost two years and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakub late last year directed Nik Mahmud to bring all factions together to resolve the issue by the middle of this year.
The committee will comprise representatives of MTA, rival bodies the Malaysian Taekwondo Federation and the Malaysian Taekwondo Club Association, National Sports Council and the Sports and Education ministries.

Olympic Council of Malaysia president Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja'afar will chair the committee, which has been given three months to resolve all issues.

"We received the approval from the minister to set up the ad hoc committee last week. We are looking at a period of three months to conclude the process," said Nik Mahmud.

"The first meeting will likely be held sometime next week where they will discuss the new constitution, application of new members and the holding of an election to elect new office bearers."

New Straits Times - Malaysia

Taekwondo fair fights

2009-04-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

The NYU Sport Taekwondo Club is known for giving its members a beating, but that’s part of the appeal. Besides being a healthy, legal and safe way to kick and punch other students, the team prides itself on teaching discipline, teamwork and commitment.

Founded 20 years ago by Master Mark Lesly, the taekwondo team has become one of NYU’s largest club sports, with 55 current members. Many students credit taekwondo for learning values they will carry for the rest of their lives.

“You gain a lot of discipline and philosophy on how to live your life,” Stern junior Michael Jiang said. “It sounds cliche, like what you see in movies, but it’s true.”

Head coach Timothy Marmo teaches his students five tenets of taekwondo, which include courtesy, perseverance, integrity, self-control and indomitable spirit. Students are also taught to bow to opponents before matches and when entering or exiting the dojang (the team’s practice room) out of respect for their master, their country and their art.

CAS sophomore Ajay Palaparty said the lessons he’s learned from taekwondo transcend the sport.

“Before joining taekwondo I wasn’t really organized, but taekwondo has taught me how to better manage my academics,” he said.

The work ethic of the team and its commitment to excellence have also prepared members to succeed in the arena. Last year, NYU finished third in the Division-II Eastern Collegiate Taekwondo Conference. Despite losing key seniors to graduation last year, the team has fought hard to continue their success. They recently competed in National Collegiate Taekwondo Championships.

“We fielded seven students and brought home four medals,” Marmo said.

NYU competes in the Eastern Collegiate Taekwondo Conference against Harvard, Yale, Columbia, West Point and other universities in the Northeast.

Part of the team’s success can be attributed to the solid dynamic and strong chemistry among teammates. Marmo describes his team as a group of friends and says going to a restaurant after practice with athletes is not uncommon.

Since collegiate taekwondo is a team sport, cohesiveness is extremely important. Athletes fight individual matches, but their victories contribute to a team score.

Tournaments and competitions are separated into forms and sparring. Athletes in forms are judged on their mastery of technique and expressiveness of movement. In sparring, however, athletes compete against one another, scoring points by landing attacks.

NYU’s taekwondo team is open to all students regardless of gender or experience; interest is the only requirement.

Isaac Kwan, the team’s co-captain, began taekwondo after seeing it on the silver screen.

“It is something I enjoyed from watching movies,” he said. “I’m a big Bruce Lee fan.”

http://www.nyunews.com/

Student of Hatfield scores high

2009-04-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

A HATFIELD student has won a top title in the Freestyle Sport Karate Association British Open Grand Championship.
The win in the Men's Korean Patterns category is Stuart Wade's first since the World Championships in Florida last year.

And the 20-year-old 4th dan blackbelt freestyle taekwondo expert beat a world champion into second place to lift the title.

A delighted Wade explained: "The category that I won was a technical section, not sparring (fighting).

"It involves performing a set of traditional taekwondo techniques (collectively called a 'pattern') towards numerous imaginary opponents, in front of a panel of judges."

The Northumberland University Applied Sport and Exercise Science student was judged on technical ability, speed of technique, power, accuracy, and stances.

"It is a very technical and disciplined event, a parallel from another sport would perhaps be the floor discipline in artistic gymnastics," added Wade.

The tournament attracted martial artists from throughout the British Isles.

"Testing myself in competition on a national and international level on a regular basis gives me great focus and determination to be the best.

"I have won 16 British/British Open/UK titles, two European titles and one World title.

"I aim to achieve numerous world titles under as many governing bodies as possible."

Wade added: "With the continued financial support from my sponsor 'For Goodness Shakes' (www.forgoodnessshakes.com) I aim to continue to compete on the world stage."

In the coming months Wade, who trains at Premier Martial Arts in Armthorpe, will be competing in different tournaments to qualify for the Great Britain team to compete in European and World Championships towards the end of the year.

http://www.thornegazette.co.uk/

Pakistan taekwondo to Korea

2009-04-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

KARACHI: An eight-member taekwondo squad of Pakistan is scheduled to leave for Korea on April 5 from Lahore to undergo training ahead of the First Asian Martial Arts Games to be held at Bangkok from April 25 to May 3, a top official of the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTF) told 'The News' on Friday.

"After great efforts and with the kind support of the Pakistan Sports Trust (PST), finally we have become capable to send four boys and four girls to Korea on April 5 for a fortnight training programme," the secretary of the PTF Muhammad Wasim Ahmad said.

He said boarding and lodging arrangements for the team are being made and the Pakistan team coach Bae Yoham, who also belongs to Korea, has already been sent to Korea ahead of the players so that he could make everything final and then receive the players at the Airport.

He said that the Asian Taekwondo Union (ATU) will also help the Pakistan taekwondo authorities in making training arrangements for the Pakistani players.

Adding that the players would move to Thailand from Korea on April 24 to feature in the Asian Martial Arts Games. Pakistan taekwondo players have been receiving training at the Army Sports Gymnasium in Rawalpindi since January 25. The PTF secretary said that the best available players have been picked for the Bangkok Games purely on merit.

He said that Ghazanfar Ali (Army, fin-weight), Arif Mehmood (Army, welter-weight), Fahim Fawad Butt (WAPDA, fly-weight), Javed Karim (Army, light-weight), Umme Kulsoom (Railways, light-weight), Maham Aftab (Punjab, fin-weight), Asia Batool (Army, welter-weight) and Nadia Khan (Army, middle weight) are the players who have been finalized for the forthcoming mega event in Bangkok and are being sent to Korea for training.

Wasim said that all these players are the best seeds of the country and have got sufficient international exposure.

Ghazanfar Ali is a silver medallist of the International Masters NRW competition held in Germany in October last year. Arif Mehmood had also reached the quarter-finals in the Asian Qualifiers for Beijing Olympics held in Vietnam last year and the same is the case with the 15-year old Maham Aftab and Asia Batool who had grabbed gold and bronze medal respectively in the Al-Hassan International Taekwondo Championship in Jordon last August.

"Asian Martial Arts Games is like the mini Olympics. It is a tough event in which 32 countries will show their worth in taekwondo. It would be premature to say anything about the chances of any medal for Pakistan. The draw also has its role and letís see what happens but I hope that the players will deliver their hundred per cent in Bangkok," Wasim said.

http://www.thenews.com.pk/

Su Li Wen for a gold

2009-04-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

She won the taekwondo championship in 2006 Asian Games in Doha, finished first in the 2007 Summer Universade and brought home a gold from the 2008 Asian Taekwondo Championship. But after Aug. 21 last year, Su Li-wen (蘇麗文) has been largely remembered as the national heroine who, despite falling to the ground 11 times, continued to fight until her coach carried her out of the ring in the Beijing Olympics.

Su published her first book last month. A Tough Kid (打不倒的孩子) chronicles Su’s pursuit of success over the past 18 years, based on the journals she kept while she was in graduate school. She did some of the illustrations as well.

“I hope my story can inspire people,” she said.

The fact that she did not get the perfect ending she hoped, and is still paying the price for losing one of the most important games in her life — a torn anterior cruciate ligament, a fractured toe on her left foot and a wrecked triangular fibro — has not dimmed her quest for an Olympic gold.

“I just don’t believe that that was it,” said Su in an interview with the Taipei Times.

The day before she was interviewed, Su visited National Taiwan University Hospital to get a shot for her injuries.

“I always think that the day I announce my retirement will be the day I feel I have reached the limits of my capacity,” she said. “I haven’t felt that way yet.”

But Su was not always such a tenacious fighter. A skinny child who was often in ill health, Su said she took taekwondo lessons because her parents hoped she would grow stronger through sports.

The training was grueling, Su recalled, and her brother quit after only three classes. Su persevered because she enjoyed the progress she made, and the feeling she had after conquering seemingly unbeatable foes.

“After you beat one of your strongest classmates, you start setting the goal of becoming a national champion. Then you want to take the next step to an international tournament. And the next thing you know you want to enter a global contest,” she said.

Taekwondo not only gave Su a healthier physique, but also channeled her youthful energy into discipline, she said.

During junior high, however, she thought about giving up the sport because of her lackluster performance in competition.

“I was not interested in school at all, but I was not doing well in takwondo either,” she said.

“My parents thought I was wasting my time on things that might eventually get me nowhere. They wanted me to concentrate on my studies instead,” she said.

Nonetheless, she remained active in sports and even at one point played on her school’s girls softball team.

Su continued her studies at the Taipei Physical Education Junior College, Taichung Physical Education College and National Chung Cheng University, where she trained as a national team athlete.

However, as an undergraduate, she supported herself by working three jobs.

The path to the Olympics was not an easy one for Su. She failed in her bid for the 2000 Sydney Olympics, losing to two-time Olympic Gold medalist Ann Chen (陳怡安). One of Su’s contacts fell out during the fight, blurring her vision and making her lose concentration.

She lost out on the 2004 Athens Olympics after the national team picked Chi Shu-ju (紀淑如) over her.

By the time she was chosen to represent the nation at last year’s Olympics, Su was 28 and many thought she was past her prime as an athlete. Her father had also been diagnosed with terminal nasopharyngeal cancer.

The bronze medal match was a very painful process, Su said.

“I tried to figure out how to stand on one leg and score the last point,” she said. “I was in so much pain. I bit my teeth so hard that a tooth cap broke and my gums bled.”

“I hardly cried, but when I saw my opponent score, which I thought she shouldn’t have because she only hit my hand, I couldn’t help but break into tears,” she said.

Su said she watches the match on YouTube with her friends from time to time, adding that she can’t believe that it was her in the match.

Although she finished fifth in the Beijing Games, the worldwide praise she garnered won her job offers from all three of her alma maters and one from National Taiwan Normal University to teach in their sports programs.

“People think NT$3 million [her prize from the government] was a lot of money, but it’s nothing if you add up payments for taekwondo lessons, or medical bills for injuries accumulated over the years — before and after there was a national health insurance program,” she said, commenting on requests by the parents of weightlifting bronze medalists Chen Wei-ling (陳葦綾) and Lu Ying-chi (盧映錡) for Premier Liu Chao-hsiun (劉兆玄) and President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) to help their children find jobs.

She said she considered herself one of the fortunate few who were able to compete in the Olympics and retire without worrying about what she was going to do next.

Many of her college classmates were working as waiters or store clerks because there weren’t many companies that would hire sports college graduates, she said.

Su accepted the offer from her alma mater in Taichung, which is now called National Taiwan Sports University, Taichung Campus, because “it has more athletes training for the national teams” and she wants pass on her experience in international competition.

Asked to comment on billiard prodigy Wu Chia-ching’s (吳珈慶) decision to apply for Singaporean citizenship because the city-state promised him more than what the Chinese-Taipei Billiard Association could offer, and golfer Tseng Ya-ni’s (曾雅妮) appeal for the government to pay more attention to her sport, Su said: “I am more concerned about whether I have done my best as an athlete than about the government resources I can get.”
This story has been viewed 640 times.

http://www.taipeitimes.com/

8 medals for Taekwondo player

2009-04-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

Taekwondo is strictly a club sport, but at a national competition held at Brown University from March 21-22, there was no shortage of fierce competition. Tufts was right in the middle of it, sending 13 competitors to the 34th National Collegiate Taekwondo Association (NCTA) Championships, with eight of them coming away with medals.

The event features over 350 competitors from over 80 schools, reaching as far as Stanford and UC Berkeley, which are known for their martial arts programs.

Gold medalists in sparring included senior blue belt Aaron Schumacher, freshman green belt Hyomi Carty and junior yellow belt Jonathan Loh. They won the first gold medals at Nationals for any Tufts martial artist. Groups were broken up by weight class and belt type, from white/yellow to green/blue to red and black.

"I didn't expect that I'd do this well," Loh said. "It was a very pleasant surprise. I landed my first headshot ever in a tournament.

"The final was intense," he continued. "My opponent was a lot better than the guys I faced in the early rounds, but the match was cut short because he sustained an injury. If I had the chance, I'd like to go against him again. I'd like to know how well I would've fared."

Schumacher also represented the Jumbos well, demolishing most of his opponents en route to his top finish.

"Schumacher completely didn't let anybody stand in his way," coach Michael Harb said. "There was only one match where they didn't need the mercy rule. He won 7-0, 5-0, 8-0, 7-3, so he completely outclassed four opponents ... As a whole, I was more than satisfied."

While the team was well-prepared going in, the team managed to exceed its own expectations.

"Coach Harb was actually shell-shocked," Schumacher said. "He was really speechless. When any one of us won a gold or silver or bronze, none of us were surprised because we had confidence going in, but overall as a team, we were absolutely surprised."

The rules for color belt sparring include three one-minute rounds, with one point being scored for body blows and two for headshots. The first to 12 or a seven-point margin takes the match.

"I was expecting the competition to be pretty tough, but I'd trained hard and put in my best effort," said Carty, who has been practicing taekwondo for four years. "The coaches trained us pretty well, and I ended up doing really well.

"I sparred in three different matches and won two by seven-point gaps," Carty continued. "The third was pretty intense. It was the finals, so [my opponent] was also very good, and we were fighting up until it was 11-11, and it was about to go into overtime ... so whoever scored the next point was going to win. I ended up getting a kick in the head on her."

Tufts earned four other sparring medals, including silvers from sophomore yellow belt Noriko Aizawa and freshman white belt Marcell Babai, who both lost in the finals by a single point.

"Noriko Aizawa is a yellow belt, so she's a beginner," Harb said. "She weighs maybe 90 pounds, and the little thing fought in the thin-weight/flyweight competition with girls a head bigger than her. And she fought like nobody's business. She did not back down from of any of her competitors and went all the way to the finals, narrowly losing 7-6. But that was only because she was competing immediately after the semifinals. The poor thing was exhausted."

Tufts also won three medals in form for the color belts. Form is a set sequence of moves judged on accuracy and the power of the techniques. The art form and beauty of moves contrast the other side of sparring, according to Harb. Junior blue belt Matthew Davenport took home the lone gold, while Aizawa and sophomore red belt Peter Yeh came away with their second silver and bronze medals of the day, respectively.

"Every year we get a couple new incoming freshmen who are black belts, but the core of the team is definitely the lower belts," Schumacher said. "It's a sustainable thing you can really see grow over time. Matt Davenport came in ... as a bumbling oaf. Now he's better than a lot of other people and is very light on his feet. He's 10 times more flexible than I am, but I was 10 times less when he came in."

Thanks to four total color belt gold medals, the Jumbos ranked third as a team, trailing only MIT and Brown, who both brought over 40 people to the competition.

"In all the other tournaments we go to, you'll have lower belts competing against upper belts," Schumacher said. "But the way the belts are divided at Regionals is not the same way as Nationals. When you're fighting higher belts, you'll inevitably get better, since you're fighting people better than you are. Having that success against them gives me confidence."

"We expected to do well on an individual level, since we face good competition in tournaments, but I was surprised we did so well as a team since we sent so few people," he continued. "I was pretty confident because we have a lot of experience in these other tournaments, and I know I'm well coached because Coach Harb is one of the best in the country. He always pushes me and tells us to keep working harder, so a lot of our success can be attributed to him."

Tufts did not have the same success in the black belt competition, as Augustine Pyo (LA '08) and senior Austin Worth were eliminated in the quarterfinals, though black belt medical student Anastasia Kazimirova earned a bronze in both form and sparring. There was greater competition in the black belt fields, as only the more dedicated martial artists were likely to travel from around the country.

Tufts only sent two team members to Nationals in Texas last year, but the proximity of Brown allowed for a greater turnout.

"It was at Brown, so our travel costs were down, and [the Tufts Community Union Senate] allocated us funds for the competition and travel expenses, which really helped," Harb said.

Overall, the Nationals experience gave the team a chance to see how it measured up against competitors outside of its league.

"We were stoked," Harb said. "We had a bunch of students come down with us and just help support and cheer the rest of them, which made a big difference. Some people gave up their spring break. Austin Worth came back early so he could compete. Everyone gained experience. We've had success in our league, but now we saw how we can fare against schools around the country, and we really took it to them. It's a testament to the program we've been running."

http://www.tuftsdaily.com/news

Enjoy Taekwondo

2009-04-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

To chip in with the government's efforts to improve the country's national brand value, the Culture Ministry says it will be doing its part by promoting Korean culture to the world.

First, the ministry plans to integrate the names of global institutes that provide information on the Korean language as the King Sejong Institute by next year. A head office for the institutes is scheduled to be built by 2011.

This is aimed at making it easier for non-Koreans to recognize the name and to gain improved access to language education. In line with this plan, the ministry says it will also establish an integrated Korean language education system called "u-King Sejong Institute." The system will offer online lectures and information on Korean in a number of foreign languages by the end of this year and support an international network of qualified teachers over the next three years.

Meanwhile, the ministry also plans to globalize Korea's national sport, taekwondo, through its "Enjoy Taekwondo" project. As part of this project, the ministry will back the development of taekwondo-related content such as video games and movies.

By 2011, a hall dedicated to year-round demonstrations of the martial art will be constructed and tour packages will be developed to attract more interest internationally. The ministry says it will send more taekwondo instructors overseas and develop an online manual.

http://english.chosun.com/

Life alters with Taekwondo

2009-04-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

When Veiko Kreis speaks of his son through his thick Estonian accent, a frequent glimmer of pride flashes in his pale blue eyes.

"His life is harder than the others," Veiko said. "He must keep me happy, and he can't lose, because he's the master's son."

The big, burly Kreis, a fourth-degree black belt, is master of the USA Taekwondo Center in Fort Myers and the head of one of Southwest Florida's first families of tae kwon do.

His wife, Inga, who runs the front desk, is a second-degree black belt. His daughter, Krislin, who is off at college studying to be a photographer, is a fourth-degree black belt.

And his son, Chris, is a third-degree black belt who recently won the Florida State Championship in the 14- to 17-year-old division for forms in Tampa. The win qualified him for this summer's Junior Olympic Taekwondo Championships in Austin, Texas.

"You just become accustomed to it, when you do it over and over again," Chris said. "It becomes your life."

Chris' success is just the latest example validating two key choices that his family made 16 years ago.

The first was to leave their native Estonia behind for America. The Cold War that had pressed Veiko into service with the Soviet Union Army for two of the longest years of his life was over. So was the Soviet Union itself, freeing Estonia from its position as a satellite country in the then-USSR.

The decision to emigrate was easy for the young couple, who had at least a few well thought-out reasons for heading west.

"To live the American dream," Inga said with a warm smile.

"Nice warm weather," Veiko added.

The second decision was Veiko's. He had no doubt he wanted to transform the childhood joy he had experienced learning karate into his new trade in his new country. But he also wanted to teach his young daughter self-defense, and karate seemed a shade rough.

And so his attention fell on tae kwon do, South Korea's meditative equivalent of Japan's more aggressive karate.

He was a quick study.

"Since I had the basics, the kicking and punching came easy, though the styles and forms are different," Veiko said.

The USA Taekwondo Center was up in no time, and Krislin was its star pupil. Just a few years later, Chris, the new addition to the brood, was quickly carving out his own niche.

"Chris was like 3 years old. He was too young, so I trained him at home," Inga said. "He would practice with broomsticks, and then he was a yellow belt, orange belt, he was making videos of himself - it was incredible."

Meanwhile, business was taking off, with the Kreis family taking its show on the road, breaking boards and bricks with heads and hands at local events and winning over new converts with its sales pitch.

"It's a sport parents can do," Inga said, before Veiko quickly cut in.

"In other sports, you have to sit on the sideline," he said, glowing with excitement. "Here you can do it with your kids.

"... And the parents, they say, 'Thank you so much. I've seen a big change in his attitude and his grades.' They say, 'If you don't get good grades, we'll tell master Veiko.'"

More than a decade after the Kreises' leap into tae kwon do, Chris, a 15-year-old freshman at South Fort Myers High, has become the family's brightest star. He's got his spot in the Junior Olympics for forms, the art's more graceful side, and wants to add a berth in the combative sparring side by qualifying next month in the National Qualifier in Orlando.

"Sparring interests me more," Chris said, "because that's the Olympic style. One of my biggest goals is to go to the Olympics."

Chris is excelling in competition, but he's no longer the primary focus of Veiko and Inga.

For more than an hour as they sit in the front lobby of USA Taekwondo and discuss their wonderful American adventures, parents and children form a steady stream in and out of the center, all devoted to the Kreis clan and the gift they've shared with Southwest Florida.

They're all part of the Kreis family now, and there are no regrets for the Estonian immigrants as they look back over the new life they chose nearly two decades ago.

"For us, it's about giving back," Inga said. "It's not about us anymore, it's about the children.

"They've all become our family."

http://www.news-press.com/

Fruitful years of Taekwondo club

2009-04-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

Pulse Taekwondo Club is celebrating their first anniversary since it was founded by John Lockwood 12 months ago at Almondbury Sports Centre.

And during that short space of time, his members have rewarded his efforts by returning from both domestic and international competition with a haul of medals and trophies.

“Our success is unmatched by any other WTF Taekwondo club in Huddersfield in just one year, and we have medals from competitions in Holland, as well as British National and International events,” said Lockwood, who is a BTCB 4th Dan black belt.

Sponsored by PJ Colours, a company who have bought the club some mats which can be used both in training or competition, Pulse also hold sessions at St John’s Church, in Lepton (Tuesday) and Brockholes Village Hall (Thursday), although Almondbury is the main venue on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Classes are open to anyone aged five years upwards, and anyone interested in learning Taekwondo, either to just get fit or to compete, can get in touch with Lockwood on 07946 021666

http://www.examiner.co.uk/

Exponents taekwondo fighter

2009-04-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

THE target of 600 exponents has been met and its all systems go for the 4th Nestle Koko Krunch Junior Taekwondo Championships at the Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium in Cheras on Saturday.
The fifth and final coaching clinic was held in Taman Klang Jaya, Klang yesterday with 200 exponents attending.

The clinic, which gave an insight to exponents on what to expect during the championships, was conducted by coaches from the Malaysia Taekwondo Clubs Association (MTCA).

"It promises to be another exciting affair based on how quickly the 600-target was met.

"In fact, we had to limit the number of entries per team to accommodate more clubs as the response following the launch was overwhelming," said an MTCA spokesman.
An annual affair since 2006, Saturday's championships will see 40 clubs and districts competing.

"There will be 10 weight divisions each for the boys and girls and some divisions will see as many as 40 competing for honours.

"What makes it remarkable is the fact that all 10 weight divisions in the girls will also see keen competition."

Launched by National Sports Council director general Datuk Zolkples Embong on March 11, the five coaching clinics saw a total 1,000 exponents participating.

"The clinics will prove useful to the exponents as the championships are meant as exposure for young exponents, some of who will be competing for the first time."

Saturday's championships will be followed by a leg in Muar, Johor on May 16. Three coaching clinics will be held prior -- in Muar, Batu Pahat and Johor.

For details, contact A. Pravin at 016-6177308 as the Muar championships are limited to 400 exponents.

http://www.nst.com.my/

Taekwondo events in University of Berkeley

2009-04-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

Taekwondo athletes from around the world will converge on the UC-Berkeley campus for three days of competition in May. The 1st Pan-Am University Taekwondo Championship will take place May 28-29 and the 40th UC Open Taekwondo Championship will be held May 30.

Both events will take place in Haas Pavilion on the UC-Berkeley campus. For the Pan-Am tournament, doors open at 5:00 PM on the 28th and 9:00 AM on the 29th. For UC Open, doors open at 6:30 AM and the opening ceremony begins at 8:30 AM.

Taekwondo, "the way of the foot and fist," is a full-contact martial art based on ancient Korean self-defense techniques. Taekwondo athletes are noted for their powerful kicks and agile footwork. In both tournaments, athletes will compete in forms (poomse) and Olympic style free sparring (gyoroogi).

The UC Martial Arts Program is an organization devoted to bringing exceptional martial arts instruction to UC-Berkeley and the local community. Founded in 1969, it is a pioneer in martial arts instruction, hosting multiple tournaments each year and sending its taekwondo competition team to victory in nearly thirty National Collegiate Championships.

Since the first tournament forty years ago, the UC Open has grown into one of the largest and most popular taekwondo tournaments on the West Coast.

This year UCMAP expects around 700 competitors from around the world to participate.

The 1st Pan-Am University Taekwondo Championship is the culmination of efforts by the Organización Deportiva Universitaria Panamericana (ODUPA), a group of countries in the Americas promoting the development of collegiate sports. ODUPA is a part of the International University Sports
Federation (FISU). Competitors from more than forty countries have been invited to participate in the Pan-Am tournament.

For additional information:
http://www.ucmap.org/uc-open.php
http://www.ucmap.org/pan-am/

Contact:
Jessie Lougheed
145 RSF, 2301 Bancroft Way
Berkeley, CA 94720
Phone: 510-642-3268
Jessie_lougheed@berkeley.edu

Chamopion crowned at Pusat Cemerlang

2009-04-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

The Pusat Cemerlang Negeri team of the United Labuan Taekwondo Association (WTF) was crowned the overall champion at the 30th Labuan Closed Inter-Centre Taekwondo Championship.

The team's medal haul of 5 golds, 3 silvers and 3 bronzes saw them take home the challenge trophy.

In second spot was Labuan Sport Complex Centre winning 4 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze medals while in third spot was Town Centre 1 (last year's champion) with 3 golds, 5 silvers and 4 bronzes.

The remaining two other spots went to Town Centre 2 with 2 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals followed by Masturi Centre with 1 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze medals.

The prizes were given away by Assistant Director of Youth and Sports Department. Ronnie Boniface Ngui.

According to organising chairman, Lim Sek Ming, the objective of the competition was to select potential exponents to represent the island for next year's Malaysia Games (Sukma) to be held in Melaka.

He added that the winners would also be selected to join the Pusat Cemerlang Negeri for intensive training.

http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/index.cfm

Taekwondo Olympic Champion Wu Jingyu withdraws

2009-04-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

After cruising her way through to the semi-finals of the National Taekwondo Championship in Suzhou, Olympic champ Wu Jingyu had to pull out at the last minute on the final day because of a hand injury. The title in the 53 kilo category instead went to Kong Deping of the Beijing Military Area Command.

All eyes were on the semi-final match of the women's 53-kilo event on Sunday, as Olympic champion Wu Jingyu was set to be in the competition. This would be her first official competition since the Beijing Olympic Games last summer. But to the disappointment of her fans, Wu didn't show up for the match.

Wu Jingyu had been riding high in her game right from the start, scoring 6-0, 11-0 and 7-0 for each of the competitions on her way to the semi-final. Then suddenly came the bad news that the Olympic champion was prevented from attending by injury, giving the match to her opponent. Yu's hand had apparently become swollen from an injury that occurred during training, and was aggravated during the competition.

http://english.cctv.com/

Martial art continues to grow in region

2009-03-07T11:03:00.000-08:00

THE popular martial art Rhee Tae Kwon-Do looks set to continue growing in the Gladstone region after the recent opening of a new class and appointments of new instructors.

Regional instructor Ken Jones opened the Calliope classes after the promotion of new assistant instructors in the region.

Six students including Jodine Cragg, Paul Wilson, Jamie Morris and Tom Bishop were promoted to first degree black belts in December, a position which sees them act as assistant instructor.

Steven Cragg was also rewarded with promotion to Gladstone branch instructor and now oversees the teaching of the art to Gladstone participants.

Cragg has been training in the martial art since late 2000 and was promoted to first degree black belt in June 2002.

He said it was common for beginners to progress to black belt status in approximately three years. “I like the discipline and self-confidence it provides children and adults alike,” he said.

Rhee Tae Kwon-Do is a non-contact school to learn the Korean martial art of Tae Kwon-Do.

It is popular throughout Australia and New Zealand and was started in Adelaide by Master Chong Chul Rhee, an eighth degree black belt and world master.

Gladstone branch instructor Steven Cragg said the key objectives of the training were 'self defence, self-improvement and lifelong fitness and exercise.'

Classes in the Gladstone region are hosted in three locations, Gladstone, Boyne Island and Calliope with each centre holding two classes per week.

Approximately 80 active members are participating across the region's three locations.

People of all ages are encouraged to participate in the classes, and interested parties are able to take advantage of the offer for two free lessons.

The sport is relatively cheap to participate in, costing members $40 monthly fee which covers all three training locations.

For more information contact regional instructor Ken Jones on 4975 0258.

http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au/

Taekwondo, synchro swim athletes shine

2009-03-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

Nanaimo's Woo Kim Taekwondo club celebrats the coming of 3 students, two of whom earned medals at the last 2009 U.S. Open Taekwondo Championships in Las Vegas. About 1,700 constestants from 59 countries participate in the largest U.S. Open ever.

Three-time Canadian junior champion Jeffrey Cromack also had won bronse in the 14-17 year-old male black belt 2nd Poom lightweight forms league while former B.C. champion Michael Lowe won the top-15 in the 18-32 year-old male black belt 3rd Dan Forms Division. He was thrown by the 2008 U.S. national forms champion.

Turning to synchronized swimming, the Nanaimo Diamonds had three groups to the regional routine meet in Coquitlam and all 3 were coming home with first-place match victory..

The Diamonds Tier Six team, playing at the provincinial level, and the Tier Three and Tier Five teams, in there 1st routine of the season all had win their divisions. The Tier Six team qualified for Western Canadian championships, which commenced at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre on March 26-29.

Meghan Dougan had won the figures event in her age division while her partner Nicole Dean had a personal-best fourth-place finish. Nanaimo's Tier One, Three and Five teams competed in the regionals at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre.

www.canada.com
www.nanamodailynews.com

Taekwondo Approves Changes to Rules

2009-03-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

The WTF General Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the world's taekwondo governing body, has voted to overwhelmingly approve the proposed amendments to the WTF Rules and Regulations and the WTF Competition Rules.

The WTF Council convened in Ankara, Turkey on December 15, 2008, on the occasion of the 2009 WTF World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships, to approve the proposed amendments.

On December 24, the WTF sent letters to its 188 member national associations and WTF Council members, asking for their votes by email or post by no later than January 31, 2009.

"In accordance with Article 20 and Article 8.12 of the WTF Rules and Regulations, I, as President of the World Taekwondo Federation, hereby announce that the proposed amendments to the WTF Rules and Regulations and the WTF Competition Rules, have been duly passed with an overwhelming majority," WTF President Chungwon Choue said.

WTF President Choue continued to say: "I am pleased with the outcome and I am positive that the new rules will serve us well in the years to come."

Out of 114 ballots cast for the proposed amendments to the WTF Rules and Regulations, 91 voted for the amendments, six voted against the amendments, four abstained. The remaining 13 votes were invalid, as most of them passed the January 31 submission deadline.

For the proposed amendments to the WTF Competition Rules, 87 voted for the amendments out of 114, and seven were against the amendments, while eight abstained. Twelve ballots were invalid as most of them passed the submission deadline.

Among the approved amendments to the WTF Rules and Regulations were the WTF's designation of the World Taekwondo Academy in Korea as its international academic center for studies, education and research of taekwondo, and the change of the name of the WTF Education Committee to the WTF Education, Training and Development Committee.

Among the newly approved WTF Competition Rules, which will be effective starting as early as in June 2009, were the shortening of the competition area from the present 10 meters by 10 meters to 8 meters by 8 meters; the introduction of a differentiation of valid points (one point for a valid punch or kick to the trunk protector, two points for a valid turning kick to the body, and three points for a valid kick to the head); the introduction of an instant video replay system; the abolition of the win by a 7-point gap and the win by a 12-point ceiling; and the awarding of an additional point to the opposing contestant for two kyonggos and a gamjeom.

In a joint meeting of the presidents and secretaries general of the WTF's five Continental Unions at the WTF headquarters in Seoul, Korea on February 3-6, 2009, the participants were briefed on the results of the WTF General Assembly e-votes.

The WTF Continental Union leaders also discussed the implementation dates of the new WTF Competition Rules and the grading of Continental taekwondo championships for the newly implemented WTF athlete ranking system.

Among the participants were Gen. Ahmed Fouly, President of the African Taekwondo Union (AFTU); Mr. Hossam Morsi, Secretary General of the AFTU; Mr. Dai Soon Lee, President of the Asian Taekwondo Union (ATU); Mr. Kyu Seok Lee, Secretary General of the ATU; Mr. Athanasios Pragalos, President of the European Taekwondo Union (ETU); Mr. Gerrit Eissink, Secretary General of the ETU; Mr. Ji Ho Choi, President of the Pan American Taekwondo Union (PATU); Mr. Roberto Beltran Ramonetti, Secretary General of the PATU; Mr. Phillip Walter Coles, President of the Oceania Taekwondo Union (OTU); and Mr. John Kotsifas, Secretary General of the OTU.

http://www.aroundtherings.com/

MTA Must Resolve Internal Crisis By June

2009-03-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Taekwondo Association (MTA) has been given until June to resolve their internal problems if the taekwondo sport are to be included in the 2010 Melaka SUKMA.

Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the decision was made to give exponents under MTA a chance to compete in the SUKMA that has been fixed from May 28 to June 6, 2010.

"I am confident Sports Commissioner (SC) Datuk Nik Mahmud Nik Yusof can resolve the issue successfully by June," he told reporters after chairing a SUKMA committee meeting in Parliament here Thursday.

He added that the MTA, the Malaysian Taekwondo Clubs Association (MTCA) and the Malaysian Taekwondo Federation (MTF) had agreed to form a joint committee to try and resolve differences that existed among the three.

Ismail Sabri said the MTA issue has to be solved so that it would not hinder the progress of taekwondo exponents who are identified to compete in international competitions.

"Taekwondo need to be given attention as it is among sports that has a potential to contribute medals for the country," he said.

MTA was deregistered in mid 2005 by former Sports Commissioner Tan Sri Elyas Omar for apparently hindering the development of the sport but former Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said reinstated the MTA's status in June 2007.

However, some officials who were not happy with the reinstatement of MTA, filed a complaint with the SC's office and the status of the association remains hanging in the balance.

Meanwhile, Melaka state executive councillor for Welfare, Unity, Youth and Sports Datuk (Capt) Ab. Karim Sulaiman said due to the economic crisis, the organising cost of the SUKMA has been reduced to RM30 million.

"But despite the reduced budget, the quality and glamour of the Games will not be affected," he said.

www.bernama.com.my

Ads:Taekwondo Classes

2009-02-19T04:15:00.000-08:00

THE Chermside and Deagon branches of the Queensland Self Defence and Taekwondo Academy is offering classes for everyone aged from seven years. Classes will be held locally.
Visit www.queensland-self-defence.com.au or phone 1800 649 549.

Northside Chronicle,
Brisbane,Australia

Martial Art is great for all

2009-02-19T04:12:00.000-08:00

Rhee TaeKwonDo classes Tor young and old are now running at Rutherford every Wednesday and Friday evening.

Sa Bum Nim (teacher) Qendon Clibbon invites people to come along to a class and find out what Rhee Tae Kwon Do is all about.

"it would be great to get more people involved, especially at the Rutherford classes," he said.

Clibbon said it was a good way to learn skills and be trained both physically and mentally.

"Our code at Rhee Tae Kwon Do is sound body, sound mind." Clibbon. who is a second degree black belt, and fellow instructors have years of martial arts experience and provide a safe and fun learning environment for students.

Rhee TaeKwonDo is a traditional non-contact martial art that promotes respect, discipline, health, fitness, flexibility and perseverance.

It is suitable for men, women, and children of all ages from five years old.

One of the greatest advantages of Rhee Tae Kwon Do as a martial art is that it not only teaches self-defence, but it also enhances every aspect of mental and physical wellbeing.

The practice of Rhee Tae Kwon Do imparts to each member, self-control, self-discipline, high moral standards, improved psychological outlook and overall strength of character.

Grand Master Chong Chul Rhee, an 8th Dan Black Belt, is considered to be the father of Tae Kwon Do in Australia and made Rhee Taekwondo the most popular and accepted martial art in Australia and New Zealand.

Clibbon runs Rliee Tae Kwon Do classes at St Paul ’s Hall, Rutherford on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6pm to 715pm and at the Pat Hughes Community Centre in Thornton on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm to 7.15 pm.

Classes are also held at East Maitland, Largs, East Gresford, Clarancetown, Paterson, Cessnock and Branxton as well as locations in Newcastle and Port Stephens.

For more information phone 0404 505 570 or visit www.rhee-tkd.net

By Katie Smith
Lower Hunter Star, New South Wales

Joshua picks up his junior belt

2009-02-19T04:10:00.000-08:00

A 10-year-old Seaham boy is one of the Port ’s youngest to be promoted to a junior black belt in Taekwondo. At Port Stephens Toogee Taekwondo ’s recent grading examinations Joshua Russell defended himself against one or two people for 15 rounds, broke wooden boards and did 100 push-ups and situps, amongst other things, to achieve his black belt.

"I was really excited when I made it," Joshua said.

Joshua has been training at Toogee ’s Raymond Terrace centre for about three and a half years and Master Robert Frost, who does the examining, said 10 was a young age to achieve a junior black belt.

"A lot of people don ’t make it that far but Josh has really put the work in," Frost said.

Joshua was introduced to the sport by his father Gary, who is a first degree black belt.

Joshua ’s eight-year-old sister, Ellie, also trains and is a third grade junior.

Gary Russell said he enrolled his children because the sport taught realistic self defence as well as fitness, discipline~ flexibility, confidence and self respect.

"It teaches them to respect themselves, each other and their elders" Mr Russell said.

More than 100 students from the Port Stephens and Newcastle regions met to be tested by Master Robert Frost.

By Sarah Price Port
Stephen Examiner,New South Wales

Hall’s kicks on

2009-02-19T04:01:00.000-08:00

HALL ’S Taekwondo, established by Martin and Jeanette Hall, is celebrating its 25 Years Strong" with a show of appreciation to members.

"A very special prize draw will be taking place where members past, present and those loining in 2009 can log on to become eligible to win some magnificent prizes," Mr Hall said.

These prizes have been donated by Hall ’s in partnership with local businesses that have had a strong relationship with it during the past 25 years.

Malor prizes will be a new Holden Barina from Hall ’s Taekwondo and Preston Motors Essendon and a cruise holiday, in partnership with Wingsaway Travel &Cruiseland, Essendon. Visit gohalls.com.au to enter the draw which will take place later in the year.

Hall ’s Taekwondo has more than 50 full and part-time instructors at its centres in Brunswick, Essendon, Heidelberg, Sunshine and Tullamarine.

Classes for adults and children are run according to age and belt colour level Sports (15 years to adult); Leaders (10-14 years); Commandos (7-9 years); Little Ninlas (5-6 years); and Joeys (3-4years).

Hall ’s Taekwondo is at 261 Mickleham Rd, Tullamarine. I
nquiries: 9330 0032 or visit gohalls.com.au

Nepal Emerged as Taekwondo Team Champion in India

2009-01-08T03:38:00.000-08:00

The 2nd International Taekwondo Championship was organized by Taekwondo Federation of India and co-organized by Mr. Javed Khan, Organizing Secretary at Badminton Hall, 35th Battalion, Police Line, Mahanagar, Lucknow, India on Dec. 20-21, 2008.

The 1st International Taekwondo Championship was also held in Lucknow, India in 2006 where Afghanistan stood first, India were runner-up, while Malaysia finished third.

Mr. Jimmy R. Jagtiani, Secretary General of Taekwondo Federation of India & Founder Taekwondo in India informed that initially a bilateral series between India & Pakistan was planned but taking into account the recent Mumbai terror attacks the Organizers asked the Pakistan team not to visit the Country, and hence due to security issues we have to dropped the neighbouring Team this time from the list.

The competition would have been even better if Pakistan could have participated in the event. Meanwhile One Teams from Nepal and two Team from the host India comprising of 148 players and officials participated in the Championship.

Nepal emerged the Champions they collected 136 points through 16 Golds, 3 Silvers and 3 bronzes to finish in the top. Host India A-Team 132 points claimed the second place with 7 Golds 10 Silvers and 11 Bronzes. India B-Team got 116 points and had to be contended with the third sport. They bagged 3 Golds 10 Silvers and 15 Bronzes.

The Result:

JUNIOR

FIN
GOLD: LOKENDRA B. GURUNG (NEPAL)
SILVER: DIVYANSHU SINGH (INDIA-A)

FLY
GOLD: S.GANDHI MEITEI (INDIA-A)
SILVER: RAJ KUMAR GURUNG (NEPAL)
BRONZE: G. SANGRAM (INDIA-B)

BANTAM
GOLD: ANUBHAV THAPA (NEPAL)
SILVER: AKMAL KHAN (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: ABHISHEK SINGH (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: W. LEISHEMBA MEITEI (INDIA-B)

FEATHER
GOLD: NG. RAJESH MEITEI (INDIA –A)
SILVER: CH. NINGTHEM SINGH (INDIA –B)
BRONZE: ABHINANDAN RAI (INDIA – A)
BRONZE: SUJAN PUJARI (NEPAL)

LIGHT
GOLD: BINOD NEPALI (NEPAL)
SILVER: CHANDAN CHAUHAN (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: ALOK MANDAL (INDIA-B)

WELTER
GOLD: MD. DEEPAK ADHIKARI (NEPAL)
SILVER: MD. SAFIQUE ALAM (INDIA –B)
BRONZE: SATYAVRAT SAHI (INDIA – A)
BRONZE: VISHAL KUMAR (INDIA – B)

LIGHT MIDDLE
GOLD: W. KAMANDO SINGH (INDIA-A)
SILVER: GURSHARN SINIGH (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: NISHIKANT SAHI (INDIA-B)

MIDDLE
GOLD: P.HEMJIT MEITEI (INDIA – B)

LIGHT HEAVY
GOLD: SABIN SHAHI (NEPAL

HEAVY
GOLD: AARUSH MUNSHI (INDIA – A)
SILVER: HARSHDEEP RATTAN (INDIA –B)
BRONZE: K.CHANDAN (INDIA – B)

SENIOR COLOUR BELT

FIN
GOLD: BISHWORAM B.K. (NEPAL)
SILVER: PANKAJ BISHT (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: HARISH KAPUR (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: M. MANIKANDAN (INDIA-B)

FLY
GOLD: ISHWAR PARIWAR (NEPAL)
SILVER: K.PRAVEEN (INDIA – B)

BANTAM
GOLD: ANIL MAHARJAN (NEPAL)

FEATHER
GOLD: RAJKUMAR LAMA (NEPAL)
SILVER: SAMAY KAPASIYA (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: NANDAN SINGH (INDIA – A)
BRONZE: SUNIL SHARMA (INDIA – B)

LIGHT
GOLD: RABI KAPALI (NEPAL)
SILVER: AMIT KAPASHIYA (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: PARVESH KUMAR (INDIA-B)

WELTER
GOLD: NEERAJ SINGH (INDIA –A)
SILVER: PRADEEP KUMAR (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: GURMEET SINGH (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: SURESH CHHETRI (NEPAL)

MIDDLE
GOLD: VIJAY KAPASIYA (INDIA-B)
SILVER: BIKKEY GUVAJU (NEPAL)
BRONZE: TH. TABUNG MEITEI (INDIA-A)

HEAVY
GOLD: PREM BUDDHATHOKI (NEPAL)
SILVER : A. LOPENDRO SINGH (INDIA-B)

SENIOR BLACK BELT

FIN
GOLD: MOHD. OMAR (INDIA-A)
SILVER: V. JEEVANNANTHAM (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: PUNEET MANISHI (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: ASHOK KHADKA (NEPAL)

FLY
GOLD: PURUSHOTTAM MANANDHAR (NEPAL)
SILVER: PRATEEK KANDPAL (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: T.SUNILDRO SINGH (INDIA –B)
BRONZE: H.BOBO SINGH (INDIA –A)

BANTAM
GOLD: PRADEEP LAMA (NEPAL)
SILVER: LAXMANAN (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: AMAY CHAUHAN (INDIA-B)
BRONZE: ANAND KR. R. (INDIA-A)

FEATHER
GOLD: AASHISH MAHARAJAN (NEPAL)
SILVER: MD. MUJIBUR REHMAN (INDIA –A)
BRONZE: KUMAR GURUNG (INDIA –B)
BRONZE: RAHUL KR. PATI TRIPATHI (INDIA- A)

LIGHT
GOLD: VIKAS KR. SINGH (INDIA-B)
SILVER: DAN BAHADUR AIRI (NEPAL)
BRONZE: RAVI SHANKAR TRIPATHI (INDIA-B)

WELTER
GOLD: DEPENDRA THAPA (NEPAL)
SILVER: MD.KABIR KHAN (INDIA-A)
BRONZE: V.EDWARD (INDIA –B)

MIDDLE
GOLD: BADRINATH BASNET (NEPAL)
SILVER; BINNET KR. GUPTA (INDIA-A)

HEAVY
GOLD: L.MANGALSANA MEITEI (INDIA –A)
SILVER: PAMEI POUKHOLLUG (INDIA –A)
BRONZE: AMIT KUMAR ROUT (INDIA –B)

OFFICIALS NEPAL TEAM:-
MANAGER; Mr. Shree Man Thapa Magar
COACH : Mr. Subash Chandra K.C.
REFEREE : 1) Mr. Norbu Lama, 2) Badri Prasad Ghimire, 3) Govind Prasad Sharma.

OFFICIALS INDIAN TEAM:-
CHAIRMAN: Dr. Akhileshdas Gupta, Former Minister for Steel
SECRETARY O.C:- Mr. Javed Khan.
JOINT SECRETARY O. C:- Miss Hena Habib.
MANAGER: Mr. Peter J. Jagtiani & Mr. Raza Hussain.
COACH: Mr. Anil Guar & Mr. P. Olen.
REFEREE: 1) Mr. Satpal Rehal, 2) N.K. Purshotham, 3) D.G. John Elexander

Grand Master Jimmy R. Jagtiani, 8th Dan, Secretary General : Taekwondo Federation of India and Founder of Taekwondo in India was the Chief Guest at the closing ceremony and gave away the prizes.

For details contact: TAEKWONDO FEDERATION OF INDIA, Grand Master Jimmy R. Jagtiani, Secretary General, TFI, and Founder of Taekwondo in India at jimmy_jagtiani@yahoo.co.in

Taekwondo team to train for SEA Games in Laos

2009-01-08T03:35:00.000-08:00

VietNamNet Bridge - Vietnam’s 40-member taekwondo team will start training at Hanoi’s Sports Training Centre No 1 on February 2 in preparation for the 25th SEA Games to be held in Laos late this year.

Last month, Nguyen Dinh Toan and Nguyen Minh Tu bagged a couple of gold medals in the mixed doubles of the World Taekwondo Performance Championships in Turkey.

Marital art has been a strong point for Vietnam in international competitions.

Artist Tran Hieu Ngan won the country’s first Olympic silver in the women’s under-57kg in Olympics Sydney in 2009.

National Jins back in training today

2009-01-08T03:31:00.000-08:00

The Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) will resume the rigid training of its athletes today with the 25th Southeast Asian Games in Laos in December as their focus.

According to PTA national training director Stephen Fernandez, the association has lined up several competitions for its national team this year, the principal goal of which is a strong performance in Laos.

“We’ll have a busy year, lots of major competitions including the SEA Games,” said Fernandez, a former national athlete and Olympian.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has urged all members of the national teams to report back to training on January 15.

“They [jins] shortened their vacation but we think they’ll go back to training well-rested and invigorated from the Christmas break,” Fernandez said.

The RP taekwondo team bagged one gold, four silver and six bronze medals in the Nakhon Ratchasima (Thailand) SEA Games two years ago. Tshomlee Go won the solitary gold medal.

Taekwondo officials are also looking at the 2009 Asian Youth Olympics in Singapore in July, which is a qualifier for the 2010 Youth Olympics also in Singapore.

By: Ian Brion Business Mirror

Pak taekwondo team to go to Seoul for training

2009-01-08T03:25:00.000-08:00

KARACHI: The Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTF) is targetting South Korea as the most suitable spot for the training of its players ahead of the First Asian Martial Arts Games slated to be held in Bangkok from April 25 to May 5.

“We plan to send our players to Seoul for a two-week training in order to prepare them well ahead of the tough competition in Thailand. We intend to leave for South Korea on April 17 and from there the squad will move to Thailand on April 23 to participate in the Games,” the secretary of the PTF Major Wasim Ahmad told ‘The News’ in an interview on Wednesday.

He said he had already negotiated his plan with the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) President and has been granted permission to train his team in South Korea for the Asian Martial Arts Games. He further said the trip would help boost the morale of the Pakistani players and will dispel the sort of fear from their hearts which they usually harbour about their Korean opponents.

“Asia is ruling over the world in taekwondo and the coming Games in Bangkok could be deemed as a world class show and our players will have to put in their best if they want to give good news to the nation,” Wasim added.

Elaborating on the expenses of the Seoul trip, he said it would cost around Rs. 1500,000 but called the trip is indispensable for preparation for such a big event.

He also said that he had apprised the President of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) General Arif Hassan about his plans during his meeting with the top brass of the martial arts federations early December last year in Islamabad, adding this will also come under discussion during the meeting of the national federations planned by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) in the middle of this month in the federal capital. However, Wasim showed optimism that General Arif Hassan, who is also the chairman of the Pakistan Sports Trust (PST), will definitely help him implement his plans.

About his selection plans, he replied that leading players of the national and the national ranking championships which have already been conducted by the PTF at the end of last year will be put in the camp for the Bangkok event. He added that four men and the same number of women will represent Pakistan in taekwondo in the Bangkok Games.

It is pertinent to mention here that in the Asian Martial Arts Games, players from 45 countries, would show their worth in eight different disciplines.

By Alam Zeb Safi
http://www.thenews.com.pk

Australian, state and zone champs crowned

2009-01-08T03:23:00.000-08:00

Two Australian champs were crowned from the one small Taekwondo club in the Nambucca Valley.

The results got better, as final points were calculated over the last few weeks. Two other members were crowned state and zone champions in their age groups.

Former Australian champion Reece Trent passed on his Australia Independent Martial Arts Tournament (IMAT) title for 10-15 year-olds to his younger brother, Trent.

Reece went on to claim the NSW championship for the same age group.

Hope Forrest was named Mid North Coast champion for her age.

Tournament trainer Dean Conlan was named Australian Senior Male Champion for over-18s.

Nambucca Valley Taekwondo Club head instructor Murray Hicks said this year ’s outstanding results had everything to do with the effort that Conlan had put into preparing students for the physical and psychological challenges of tournament competition.

"The club finished sixth out of all the clubs entered in IMAT from across Australia," he said.

"For a small club, that is a wonderful result, and Dean deserves all the credit for that." Conlan focused on a combination of fitness and training regimes to prepare students for tournaments, and prevent newcomers freaking out ’.

"You get used to sparring with the same people, so it is a challenge when you get there and you are put up against people fighting in a different style, who might be a lot bigger than you are," he said.

"You only have a couple of minutes to prove the worth of all your training, so you ’ve got to be ready to think on the spot." The champions ’ awards were decided by adding together all the tournament points accumulated during the year~ which rewarded both winning and participation.

Each competes in an age division against those on the same level as them. Hope is currently a red belt, while the Stack boys are Sho Dan Bos, or provisional black belts.

Dean is a third Dan black belt. All of them have been training for years to achieve their belts, and were looking forward to taking on the next step next year.

The group of champions has stock-piled a huge mound of trophies and medals from their activities throughout the year and are hoping for more success in 2009.

Guardian News,
New South Wales,Australia

Our Ember’s flying

2009-01-08T03:20:00.000-08:00

Ember said. Recently the sports star was invited to attend the Canadian Commonwealth Games, but was unable to attend because of a lack of funds.

Next year, she is hoping to compete at the US Open in Las Vegas.

Ember trains four to five days a week and follows a strict diet and fitness regime. "To be the best at the sport you do have to make sacrifices, but for me, it ’s worth it." > Ember is this week ’s Manning/tam Leader Senior Sports Star nominee. To nominate someone who has competed at state level or higher, email manningham@leadernewspapers.com.au.

WHEN it comes to balancing work, studies and a gruelling taekwondo training regime, Park Orchards ’ Eve Ember knows how to tough it out.

The 20-year-old last year won silver at the Taekwondo Australian Open and National Championships in Sydney.

This followed gold at the same event in 2005, and a silver at the Victorian Championships in 2006.

Ember earned many of the medals while completing her VCE and working part time to cover training expenses.

"It certainly is a challenge, but something I enjoy and couldn ’t imagine not doing,"

Mannigham Leader
Melbourne, Australia

Taekwondo students impress instructors during grading

2009-01-08T03:17:00.000-08:00

Thirty Orana Taekwondo (OTKD) students were put through their paces recently as theyworked toward a higher grading at their end-of-term assessment.
In what was an eventful night, 30 OTKD coloured belt studentsworked hard to keep up with the pace set by instructor Anthony O ’Leary 1st Dan, while Head of Style Chizen Taekwondo, Kim Macrae 5th Dan graded the students.
O ’Leary was very impressed with the students ’ growth and enthusiasm during the grading.
"The OTKD students have learned a range of skills including basic punches, taekwondo kicks, iKi moves, self-defence techniques and ITF patterns that are becoming more complexin technique," O ’Leary said.
These skills were put to the test at the grading and all students impressed on the night.
Some notable mentions include Jessica Riley, Alyssa O ’Leary, Kalina Davis and Brandon Mohr who all demonstrated outstanding skills and effort.
James Fern demonstrated the tenet of perseverance to complete all set skill requirements to gain his yellow belt and he was also awarded the club ’s award for this tenet.
Twelve other students demonstrated outstanding skills and went on to gain their green belts and blue tips.
These students included Teagan and Mikaela Percy, Toby Stewart and Jordyn Dalton who performed excellent turning kicks and showed great control with patterns.
Chloe Rosser, Nicole Heath, Kelly Hannifey and Brandon Mohr worked hard throughout the two hours of the grading to be awarded their green belts in a double grading, a rare achievement.

Daily Liberal

SUPER SOPHIE

2008-12-23T08:13:00.000-08:00

TAEKWONDO star Sophie Dickson continues to impress after yet another victory on the international stage.

The 14-year-old from Norris Green earned a stunning win at the UTA International Championships in London – a further step on the road to stardom in a sport in which she is fast becoming a dominant force.

Sophie, a member of the the Lightning Taekwondo club based in Bootle, dreams of competing for Britain at the 2012 London Olympics and Dave Wishman, her coach at Lightning, hopes she can get there.

“It was an impressive display of tactics and aggressive techniques,” he said, “and many coaches from the other teams commented on her performance and how they hope to see her in the new year.

“She has such a mature attitude for one so young.”

Shirley Dickson, team manager at Lightning Taekwondo and also Sophie’s mum, said: “She is doing exceptionally well at the moment, but we really hope that some sponsors will come forward to help her develop even more.”

Sophie, who last year was named as a ‘Sportsperson of the Month’ by sports drink manufacturer Taut, started out in taekwondo nine years ago when she saw an advert at her local sports centre, and hasn’t looked back.

“Taekwondo is her life,” said Shirley. “She puts her heart and soul into it.

“The Olympics are definitely in her sights and it’s what she wants to achieve.”

For more information on Lightning Taekwondo, and to find out how to sponsor Sophie, visit: www.lightningtkd.co.uk

CM NWFP honours medal winners of 3rd Provincial Games

2008-12-23T07:46:00.000-08:00

PESHAWAR, Dec. 23 (APP): NWFP Chief Minister Amir Haider Khan Hoti Tuesday honored medal winners of the 3rd Provincial Games by giving them cash incentives worth Rs.1 millions to more than 128 female and male players here at a local hotel.
NWFP Minister for Information Mian Iftikhar, Chairperson standing committee on Sports Sugufta Malik, Minister for Women Development Sitara Ayaz, Minister for Health Syed Zahir Ali Shah, Minister for Sports Syed Aqil Shah, Secretary NWFP Olympic Association Zulfiqar Butt, office-bearers of the associations and players were also present.

In his speech the NWFP Chief Minister Amir Haider Khan Hoti said that today is historical day as the players have been given cash incentives for the first time in the history of NWFP.

“Today is a memorial day for all of you and I assured that the government would continue its support to youth by providing all facilities and every good performance at provincial, national and international levels would be recognized with zeal and spirit,”

Hoti added.

“I salute you all as you are portraying the true image of the province both at national and international levels,” he while referring to the players remarked. “You are true ambassador of the province,” he said. “With your support and the support of the NWFP government to players would definitely work against those portraying negative image of the province internationally. “Neither we are terrorists nor supporting terrorism as we believe in peace,” Hoti added.

The world should come and see performance of our players at national and international levels. “It is a very minor step taken by the govt. as we want to continue our support to encourage the youth in all fields of life for prosperous Pakistan,” he said.

The elements involved in sabotaging the peace of the province in particular and in country in general are less in numbers and strength. The government has taken concrete steps not to let them succeed in their nefarious desires, he maintained.

In his welcome address Syed Aqil Shah thanked the Chief Minister for announcing cash incentives to the players who performed well in the games. A total of Rs. 1 million was distributed in the players with Rs. 5000 for gold medal winner, Rs. 3000 for silver medal winners and Rs. 2000 for bronze medalist.

NWFP grabbed 23 gold, 53 silver and 52 bronze medals by securing 2196 points and declared overall second in the Games behind Punjab. NWFP won gold medals in hockey, football, volleyball, Badminton (female), Cycling (female), weightlifting, karate, swimming, judo (female) taekwondo and wrestling. Taekwondo Association was also added best performance trophy of grabbing four gold medals.

The Chief Minister also gave shield to the organizing committee, technical officials, media and Enhancer Communication, the official media marketing. At the end, Aqil Shah presented a shield to the Chief Minister.

I Want Taekwondo as a Permanent Olympic Event

2008-12-23T07:40:00.000-08:00

Taekwondo has 188 member nations, making it a sport befitting the Olympic spirit.

Former taekwondo Olympic gold medalist Moon Dae-sung told this to International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge at a meeting of the Athletes�Commission in Lausanne, Switzerland, held Dec. 8-10.

Moon is the first Asian to be named to the commission, and is lobbying to have taekwondo made a permanent Olympic sport.

In a news conference at Seoul뭩 Olympic Parktel yesterday, Moon announced his plan to globalize taekwondo. "I just began my first step as an IOC AthletesCommission member. I strive to learn more. I want to help Korean sports to be loved by the world,"he said.

Moon won the Olympic gold in taekwondo뭩 heavyweight division in the 2004 Athens Games by knocking out Greece`s Alexandros Nikolaidis with a jump spinning hook kick.

The Korean plans to hold an international forum on taekwondo in August, and will visit underdeveloped nations once or twice a month to spread the martial art and lend a helping hand to them.

"The World Taekwondo Federation has changed its grading system and reduced the scale of the ring,"he said. "I think these changes are good. I will talk to officials from the World Taekwondo Federation, Korea Taekwondo Association and the Kukkiwon (federation headquarters) soon to develop taekwondo into a more dynamic sport."

Moon said he will improve Korean sports diplomacy, nurture talented athletes, and boost the popularity of the Youth Olympics over his eight-year term as commission member.

At an inspection conducted by the National Assembly in October, rumors flew that he had the support of a government ministry in his election to the Athletes Commission.

To this, Moon said, "I broke no rules that members of the IOC Athletes Commission must follow. I was elected to the commission because I talked with athletes 15 hours per day during the Olympic Games."

Against an Armed Attack

2008-03-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

The following article is based on the principles and techniques taught in the Armed and Dangerous Knife Defense video series. It is intended to give a brief overview of the central tenet of knife combat for the experienced martial artist.

Much has been written aout the effectiveness of one system or another in a realistic or "street" situation. Many styles claim to be scientifically designed or to have secret techniques to defeat even the toughest of opponents, including armed assailants. Yet when it comes to an assailant armed with a knife, you don't need to learn a lot of fancy, secret techniques, you only need to remember four simple options. In an armed confrontation, basic is best and the most direct techniques are the ones that will give you the opportunity to walk away when it's over.

Four Choices, One Result

When faced with a weapon, you have four choices: retreat, lateral inside close, lateral outside close or pass by. Each of these initial movements allows you to shorten the distance between you and your opponent. Once you get close, you can apply the defense of your choice. If you prefer kicking, you can use a kick. If you prefer locking, you can apply a lock. If you prefer grappling, you can take your opponent to the ground. But to use any of these skills, you first have to get close to your attacker.

Retreat: Cowardice or Foresight

To retreat is generally seen by the opponent as a sign of cowardice. You are too afraid to fight or you are unable to match your opponent's strength, so you step back to avoid being drawn into a confrontation. However, the retreat can be a smart intial move since it gives you a chance to meaure your attacker's seriousness and prepare a strategy. And there is always the chance that when you signal a retreat, your attacker will back off enough to let you escape. This is, of course, the safest and most intelligent way to defeat an armed attacker. It is also the least likely outcome.

The other option is to retreat a step or two to give yourself time to collect your thoughts and ensure you are in the safest possible position to defend yourself. You can use a retreat to gain better footing, adjust your stance or height to your opponent or manuever for the best position in a confined space. You also can use a retreat to take control of the timing and distance of the confrontation. When you begin to retreat, your attacker is forced to react to you. Now you are in control, at least for the moment, of how fast the situation is moving. You can find the distance most comfortable for you and prepare to retaliate when you are ready.While retreating, you should be observing your opponent's position. Is he holding the weapon in his right or left hand? Is he bigger or smaller than you? Does he appear to have any obvious weaknesses? Is he quick or slow? Is there anything behind him or out of his line of view that you can use to your advantage? Does he see your retreat as a sign of weakness or does it make him nervous? There are many signals, both overt and subconscious, that your attacker will give off. By being observant, you can prepare your next move.

Disadvantages of the Retreat

While a retreat is the most sensible option available, it has disadvantages that make it a poor choice in some situations. Obviously, it is not an option in a confined space. And while you gain a physical advantage by retreating, you lose a major psychological advantage. The minute you step back, the psychological upper hand goes to your opponent. He will see you as weak, uncertain, inexperienced and perhaps unskilled. Although you may have a plan of attack all thought out, he sees only your retreat and gains courage from it. If you do have a plan, you can regain the advantage by using it when he thinks you are about to give in. If you do not have a plan, your fear will only be magnified by retreating.

Lateral Closes

The lateral close is the most commonly taught method of defending against a thrusting, lunging or cutting attack. There are two methods of using the lateral close. The first is to side step your opponent's forward movement. When the opponent attacks, you step either to the right or left of the attack while maintaining your ground. The result is that you end up very close to your opponent on the right or left side of his body.

The second method for lateral closing is to move diagonally toward your opponent. Before your opponent moves forward to attack you, you make a preemptory strike by stepping out to the side and toward him. The result is that you move into your attacker's space and end up very close to the left or right side of his body. Both methods allow you to effectively close the distance while avoiding the attacker's weapon.

And the key to defending against any weapon is to effectively and quickly get close to the assailant. The weapon weilding attacker's biggest asset is space. By holding a weapon, he extends his range of attack by several feet and thereby shortens your range. Once you pass by the outer reaches of his range, the place where he is holding the weapon, you blunt his options for attack and take away his advantage. When you get very close, you force him to resort to grabbing you or blocking your attack, distracting his attention from his weapon and lessening his advantage still further.

The Deadly Pass

The final technqiue for closing the distance against a weapon is one that you won't see taught often. It is the most dangerous, both to the attacker and the defender, and it is recommended only for experienced practitioners. The pass is dangerous even in practice and should only be practiced by martial artists who are skilled in falling and do not have any preexisting back or neck injuires. Always practice on a soft surface and never at full speed.

With these cautions in mind, have your partner face you as before and move forward with a right handed attack. Step out to the left, as if performing an outside close, but take two steps by your partner so that you are behind him. You have now "passed" your partner and have several options. You may grab his hair, head or shoulders and pull him backwards. You may apply a choke or lock from behind. You may kick his spine, tailbone, or knee to knock him forward. Or you may strike the back of his head. To be effective, the pass and follow-up technique should be performed as a single move. In an instant, you have to move by your attacker and apply a single deadly attack before he realizes where you are.

The result of a correctly performed pass is that your attacker never sees it coming and is literally blindsided by your attack. If you choose to pull the attacker backward, he will certainly hit his head to the ground, knocking him unconcsious if the ground is hard. If you push him forward, he will likely hit his face on the ground, causing the same result. If you choose to strike him from behind, he will suffer a full force blow with no warning or defense, a potentially lethal strike for even the biggest opponent.

The pass is not recommended for beginners. You run the risk of becoming disoriented or losing your footing when you move so quickly and with such force. You also risk being tripped by yourself or your assailant as you pass by. And finally, you run the risk of not being fast enough to complete the pass and not getting a grip on your opponent to control his weapon either. For these reasons, the pass is taught only at the highest levels of weapons defense and should be applied with great care.

Choosing your Method

Which method you choose to close the distance depends on your skill level and experience. For beginners, practicing the outside close is safest. When you are comfortable with your speed and timing and can finish your partner easily from the outside close, practice the inside close. If you are very experienced and have an experienced partner, you can also experiment with the pass.

Whichever method you choose, there are a few common principles:

1. Stay as close to your opponent as possible after you close.
2. Focus on taking control of the knife first.
3. Grabbing the knife wielding hand is always preferable to parrying/blocking.
4. Cut off your attacker's view of the knife.
5. Close the distance quickly and smoothly.
6. Never take unnecessary chances or use complicated techniques.
7. Detach yourself from the fear you feel when faced with a weapon.
8. Stay alert but unemotional.
9. Keep a natural demeanor and deceive your opponent.
10. Move suddenly and without warning.

Finishing Techniques

In the above examples, we briefly touched on technqiues used for finshing after you close the distance. Although the methods for closing the distance are only three, the potential number of finishing technqiues are as vast as the arts we practice. Once you get close to your opponent, you can use your strongest skills, whether they are striking, kicking, throwing, locking or grappling. There are no secret weapons or scientific pricniples. There is only the simple truth that once you take away your opponent's advantage, you are free to use whatever you are best at.

The Art of Harmony Part 5

2008-03-10T21:35:00.000-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

Eye of the Hurricane

In perfect stillness is perfect action;
In absolute action is hidden stillness.

Action is a visible labor; stillness invisible.
Action is effect; stillness cause.
Action travels; stillness stays in time.
Action is a deed; stillness a reference point.
Action creates meaning; stillness reason.
Action discovers; stillness reveals.
Action justifies; stillness unravels.
Action uncovers weakness; stillness virtue.
Action is journey; stillness origin.

Stillness is the sand; action the footprints.
Stillness is eternal; action finite.
Stillness frees; action limits.
Stillness bears time; action devours.
Stillness keeps us wondering; action keeps us busy.

Action stirs; stillness does the work.

The Art of Harmony Part 4

2008-03-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

Meet the Enemy

An enemy is one who is committed to destroying you,
Who looks for any potential opening to get in,
Who hits you first from behind then from the front.

The best way to know the opponent:
Meet him head on,
Confirm his strength,
Exploit his weakness,
Topple him in surprise.

The worst enemy is the most intimate: the one who steals your inner thoughts, betrays you, doubts you, saps your strength and focus. As long as you can defeat him firmly, you can destroy all other enemies.

He is you.

The Art of Harmony Part 3

2008-03-10T21:30:00.001-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

Time

Time does not fly.
It drops into the abyss.

Time is timeless. There was not a time when there was not a time.

Time may belong to eternity, but it is a sub-concept to eternity. Eternity is the measurement of permanence whereas time is the measurement of movement. Thus we separate time into three tenses: past, present and future. It is not, however, totally logical to regard time as a thing that can be split into three segments because the division immediately destroys the understanding of time and can generate false images of time in us.

Time is like a circle that begins at one point and ends at the same point; the beginning is the end and the end is the beginning. It is constantly bearing forth a new beginning. When “now” ends here right now, a new “now” starts immediately. A beginning, in that sense, is an ending itself which is the beginning of a new beginning. If this is the case, time does not move. It is always right here.

The past and the future are only present at present. You are the maker of time and the slayer of time.

The Art of Harmony Part 2

2008-03-10T21:07:00.001-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

The Answer

Who are you?
What are you here for?
Who is your teacher?
What do you want?

What makes you who you are?
How can you be sure who you are?
Are you really the way you are?
Are you real?
What are you?
What do you have to do to be yourself?
What do you believe?
What is your hope?
What do you fear?
Whom do you know?
Are they strangers?
If not, who are they?
Who are you when you are with them?
Who are you now?
Are you insider or outsider?
Where are you from?
Are you happy?
Who taught you that?

Who you are is how you are is what you are is where you are from.

The Art of Harmony Part 1

2008-03-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

The Answer Who are you? What are you here for? Who is your teacher? What do you want?

What makes you who you are? How can you be sure who you are? Are you really the way you are? Are you real? What are you? What do you have to do to be yourself? What do you believe? What is your hope? What do you fear? Whom do you know? Are they strangers? If not, who are they? Who are you when you are with them? Who are you now? Are you insider or outsider? Where are you from? Are you happy? Who taught you that? Who you are is how you are is what you are is where you are from.

The Art of Harmony

2008-03-10T20:26:00.000-07:00

by Sang H. Kim

The Brush

Mountains and valleys,

Rocks and streams,
Birch and pine,
Birds and sky,
Short and long twigs,
Strong and soft winds,
Straight and twisted rivers,
Are perfect neighbors.
They are the strokes of life.
Without them, we are a stranger
On a lone desert
Painting an empty canvas.
No stroke, no sky.

When I was a teenager, my father used to pile up junk in the backyard. They were tons of copper wires, giant wooden wheels, a house- sized pile of electric poles, and strange looking giant plastic dishes. I asked him what they were for and he replied that they were left over from his work. I wanted a place to play, so I asked him to clean them up, but he told me to wait. So I waited more than ten years.

In the 1960s, there was serious economic and political turmoil in Korea. We didn’t have fuel in the winter to heat our house. When his five boys were sleepless in the cold, my father went out with an ax in the middle of the night and chopped the electric poles to make a fire.

Then, one day my father got in a serious motorcycle accident. My mother didn’t have money, so she sold some of the copper wire. There was a great boom in heavy industry in the country so we got more than enough money to pay my father’s hospital bills. Later on, the strange looking plastic dishes were exchanged for college tuition for my brothers and I. The five of us are pretty well educated thanks to the dishes.

Now, my father has passed away, leaving the junk in the deepest corner of my memories. I dearly cherish that junk along with memories of my disciplinarian father who created treasure out of junk for his sons. Until they were gone, I never realized their value.

The Philosophy of Taekwondo

2008-02-25T09:51:00.000-08:00

Taekwondo comes from Korea and is inspired by the ideals and deeds of famous military and civil leaders. It should never, under any circumstances be used for any commercial or political purpose. Taekwondo’s main aim is to eliminate fighting and to create a more unified and peaceful world. It opposes the oppression of the weak by the strong and seeks to increase humanity, justice, morality, wisdom and faith. The following are guidelines by which all serious students are encouraged to live: 1) be willing to go where the road is rocky and to do things that you know are going to be worth it even though you know that they are also going to be hard 2) be compassionate to those experiencing hard times and be strong to the strong 3) be content materially but always strive to do better skills wise 4) Always finish what you start 5) Be willing to teach anyone who wants to learn 6) Never yield to repression or threat if your cause is noble 7) Teach attitude and skill by actions rather than words 8) Always be yourself regardless of circumstances 9) Teach with your body when you are young, with words when you are old and by moral precept after you are dead. (From The Korean Art of Self Defence)

Before you can call yourself a teacher and hope to help create a unified and peaceful world, you have to find yourself, spiritually and morally and gain the respect of your fellows. You can do this the constant practice of mental discipline. Confucius said “To promote the sense of morality one must treat others with faithfulness and sincerity based on righteousness, and to eliminate completely vicious thinking.” Taekwondo places a great deal of emphasis on moral culture as it promotes a healthy body and a keen mind as well as good sportsmanship and the perfection of moral behaviour.

Virtue is endorsed at all times. Virtue is deemed to consist of these 5 qualities, which must be constantly practiced: 1) humanity – as defined by Confucius: to love people, especially one’s parents, don’t ask others to do something that you wouldn’t do, behave with propriety and self-control, to do what is right regardless of how small it may be in relation to how much effort it may cost, to value the honour of others’ before your own, to value the freedom of others’ before your own. 2) Righteousness – to be able to feel ashamed of unjust acts and to do your duty to others. 3) Propriety – describes a proper code of conduct i.e. in a situation where two men are starving a courteous man would offer the other a piece of bread out of respect and good manners. Confucius said that propriety was necessary for the proper development of personality and that to lack sincerity was to lose respect as a gentleman. 4) Wisdom – To able to judge right from wrong most especially in matters regarding yourself. To do what is right no matter how small it may seem. To never do what is wrong, no matter how small it may seem. 5) Trust – to be able to keep your promises to everyone and not only to the one’s you love. Trust forms the basis on which your principles are built and without it you become merely a liar and a cheater.

Man is given several tenets that will help him to discover his nature and then, ideally, improve upon it. We shall only look at a few. Be humble, one of Lao-Tzu’s teachings is that lofty virtue is like a deep valley that collects all streams of water; likewise a virtuous man will attract the respect of others while one who is selfish and egotistic will lose respect and become isolated. Respect of elders is vital in order to build a nation’s cultural and social order, without respect it could risk plunging into chaos. Respect the rights of others is a basic tenet that rings true for societies all around the world, without it we also risk chaos and anarchy. Be frugal, leaders must learn to be frugal and live moderately, which is a lesson all world leaders should learn. An adage I just learnt goes, “if the water is muddy upstream so it will be downstream.” Be discreet, do not be impulsive or reckless, and rather be patient and thoughtful in the things that you do and the decisions that you make. An old proverb says, “He who acts without thinking at least three times, will later regret his action.” Develop peace of mind, in Taekwondo that means that we do so in an active way by reflecting on past mistakes in the silence and privacy of our minds and try to continuously improve ourselves. This active, silent thought process is called “Jung-Joong-Dong”. Be firm of mind. To have strong convictions is to be unsuspicious and unafraid, it is to have the moral strength to admit when you are wrong and to have the courage to stand up to great opposition if you believe that you are right. Strong conviction comes from the broad and deep “Ki” spirit, which is an active form of energy that fills every cell and organ. If “Ki” is nurtured and allowed to grow based on humanity and justice it can enable man to reach new heights of achievement. It also allows us to keep our minds clear and alert when we are strained or confused or are battling to sleep during troubled times.

Taekwondo is in essence about developing moral character and preparing you mentally and spiritually to be the best possible example of human nature for your fellow humans in the hopes that they will learn from your actions. It is about seeking perfection in yourself and accepting flaws in others, which is a very hard thing to ask of anyone. It demands constant discipline and vigil, all in the name of peace and a better world. Is it all worth it? Well you could probably break someone’s neck with one sidekick and a punch to the chest could drive their ribs into their heart, which is instantly fatal. Walking around with that knowledge tucked away in your head must be pretty comforting, and you know its got to help for those situations when you have to face a tyrant and stand up for what you believe in or what you believe is right.

By Sandy Cosser
www.amazines.com

Significance of belts in Taekwondo

2008-02-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

Ranking systems in Taekwondo are as numerous and varied as the organisations that oversee it. Traditional belt structure is used as a guideline for organisations to decide whether or not they want to use more gups than the normal nine, or fewer. They use different coloured belts, and some use stripes to distinguish between ranks of the same colour. The term “Gup” or “Geup” means “degree”. According to the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) there are 10 Gups, working backwards from 10 to 1, starting with a white belt and ending with a red-black belt. The term “Dan” means, “Phase”. There are 9 Dans, starting with the first and ending with the ninth, all represented by a black belt.

Songahm Taekwondo uses belts to reflect the level of competence and inner journey of each member. To advance to another belt colour is seen as an achievement worthy of great respect. Moving forward in rank isn’t simply a matter of time spent practicing. It requires a demonstration in proficiency regarding the current belt’s techniques, which include basic moves, sparring and forms.

The white belt represents purity and, as new students have no knowledge of Taekwondo, it also represents a clean slate. The Songahm Organisation uses the following idiom to explain the white belt, “As with the pine tree, the seed must now be planted and nourished to develop strong roots.” According to the Korean Martial Arts Academy (KMAA) the white belt is on the 9th Gup.

The Orange belt, 8th Gup, shows the development and growth of the student’s mind in much the same way as the seasons change in autumn. At least that is the interpretation of the KMAA. The Songahm view the orange belt as the rising of the sun, a metaphor describing how the student appreciates the beauty before him, but doesn’t fully recognise the power.

The KMAA view the yellow belt, 7th Gup, as signifying the earth; a foundation of Taekwondo basics on which more advanced knowledge can grow. They use the analogy of a seed expanding its roots into the earth as it begins to grow. The Songahm have a similar outlook, as they view the yellow belt as a “seed beginning to see the sunlight”. Students gain an understanding of the basic concepts of Taekwondo and are ready to build on that knowledge.

The Songahm have a Camouflage belt, which the KMAA don't have. This belt means that the student has now realised his or her place in the largest martial art in the world and must prepare him or herself to advance in rank.

The Green belt is common to both organisations and is considered to be the 6th Gup. Green traditionally represents growth and has the same meaning in Taekwondo, as the student develops and grows in strength.

According to the KMAA the 5th Gup, or Purple belt represents the changing sky at dawn. The student experiences new changes as he or she prepares to make the transition from an Intermediate student to Advanced. The Songahm, however, view the Purple belt as a mountain that must be overcome. As the student advances, and the techniques, forms and sparring become more technical, the ensuing difficulties must be overcome.

The Blue belt, 4th Gup, has similar connotations for both organisations. Blue encourages students to reach for the sky and press onward towards the ultimate destination in Taekwondo: the coveted Black belt.

It is at this point that the two organisations diverge and follow separate paths. For the KMAA the next step is the 3rd Gup, which is the Red belt. Red means danger and serves as a warning to students to balance their skills with wisdom and control. Songahm has a Brown belt that shows the student has mastered the basics and is well settled in the rhythm and culture of Taekwondo.

The organisations alternate the colours, with KMAA moving onto a Brown belt and Songahm onto a Red one. The KMAA Brown belt is the 2nd Gup and demonstrates that the student’s techniques are maturing and becoming more advanced. The Songahm Red belt represents the setting sun and means that the first phase of growth is coming to an end. They believe that while physical skill has been achieved, the student must still master physical and mental discipline.

The next belts are similar to both organisations again as they both represent the dawning of a new day with Red/Black belts, 1st Dan. The student’s new phase in training concentrates on the skills, mental and physical, that he or she will need as a black belt.

The Black belt incorporates the 1st to the 4th Dans. It signifies maturity and dignity and means that the basic curriculum has been covered and the student is ready to learn the true art of Taekwondo.

As we can see, there is more to the ranking system in Taekwondo than merely aiming for coloured belts. There is a certain level of spirituality that accompanies each stage of advancement. Taekwondo professes to be a peaceful and holistic martial art; it’s not simply a wham, bam, knock the spit out of you because I can sport. It teaches unity, generosity and respect of all living things. Students need to be able to prove their worthiness in these aspects in addition to their physical skills, before they can claim to be worthy of the belts they wear.

By Sandy Cosser
www.amazines.com

Taekwondo for spiritual and moral upliftment

2008-02-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Taekwondo is practiced for as many reasons as there are people doing it. Some people are interested in only the self-defence aspect, while others like the physical challenges the moves present. Whatever the reasons for taking up Taekwondo, people find that the benefits exceed their initial expectations. All it takes, according to Taekwondoworld.net, is a one-hour session twice a week, for you to experience an improvement in all areas of your life.

Along with the physical health benefits, practitioners experience a renewed respect for life. Consideration for others is one of the core facets of Taekwondo. As those practicing the art grow and increase their awareness of self, they learn that they can impact positively on the lives of others by changing their attitudes and perceptions. They learn that while they can’t control other people or world events, through selflessness and generosity, they may be able to subtly effect positive changes in the world around them.

The demand placed on practitioners, by the art itself as well as by their instructors, increases self-discipline. In the real world this translates into a higher work ethic and acknowledgement of responsibilities. There is a greater sense of accountability, and the realisation of martial arts goals motivates people to set more goals in their work and professional lives. As more is achieved, the desire to achieve grows. This initiates a healthy cycle of ambition and reward.

The primary purpose of Taekwondo is to enable the strong to defend the weak. It’s expected that they will stand against oppression and prejudice and lead by example with a keen sense of justice and appreciation for the gift of life. In this way, practitioners contribute to creating a peaceful and meaningful existence for all.

While those who take part in Taekwondo are encouraged to improve all the time and strive for perfection, they also realise that perfection is impossible to attain. This results in a reduction in stress levels as they learn to appreciate the journey of life and shift their focus away from completing the journey as quickly as they can. The increased recognition of beauty and wonder has a significant impact on mood and temperament and can even be used to successfully combat depression.

Mental power receives a boost because learning new moves, techniques, and routines increases the rate of neuron firing and encourages neural growth in the brain. The benefits of this are felt well into old age. Practitioners retain their mental perspicacity and flexible thinking long after their peers have lost theirs.

The essence of Taekwondo philosophy, and the ultimate spiritual goal of all practitioners can probably best be summed up by Confucius, who said, “to promote the sense of morality one must treat others with faithfulness and sincerity based on righteousness, and to eliminate completely vicious thinking”.

By Sandy Cosser
www.amazines.com