Sunday 17thNovember saw Harlington Sports Centre play host to the much anticipated STOMP 2013 Championships. As always the event was well attended, with over 220 eagerly awaiting junior competitors representing over 10 schools spanning the Hillingdon Borough and beyond. Warmed up and ready to step onto the ring, and with the support of proud family and friends in the stands, the event was set to entail a day of anticipation, excitement and camaraderie.
Up first were the Generation-X (4-7yrs) divisions. It was fantastic to see the young students enjoying themselves amongst their peers, forming new friendships and soaking up great experience in the process. However, this was not simply a learning curve for the kids but more an opportunity to showcase all their hard work and dedication…and they did so in spectacular fashion. The children were first tested on their fast kicking over 30 seconds. This was not only a test of correct technique and speed but more a contest of perseverance and heart with some students totalling over 60 kicks, more than 2 kicks per second!!! Once this had finished and winners were announced it was time to pad up the young students and get prepared for their sparring. With spectators watching on in ore, it was humbling to see the 4-7yr olds competing toe to toe, battling for the top spot on the podium.
After a short break it was the turn of the cadets (8-13yrs) and juniors (13yrs+) to take to the ring and compete. After watching the excellent display from the Generation-X divisions, both the event team and on-lookers were eager to watch the afternoon events unfold. Up first were the junior Pattern categories which the left the spectators in amazement at the juniors ability to exercise control, power and correct technique whilst putting in the dedication and time to learn the complex combinations of set movements. As the event drew into late afternoon, motivation amongst the competitors stayed strong and this was displayed in their sparring. As the cadets and juniors competed against one another in stiff competition it was encouraging to see so much talent progressing through the grades, promising an exciting future for UK Taekwon-Do.
We would like to thank all those in attendance at the event and of course the family and friends who without this event would not have been possible. We would also like to thank all the volunteers and umpires who took the time out of their weekend to help aid the smooth running of the event. Written by: Matthew Brunger - 21st November 2013
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