With the same great venue… same experienced judges… but a
new burning desire to be this year’s Summer STOMP Champion the event was set
and ready to go!! As students from Trenic-TKD, Hollingsworth-TKD, Luton ‘Next
generation’, Khalsa and Welwyn Taekwon-Do Schools prepared to go head to head
and battle it out we knew this event was going to be a roller coaster ride of
excitement, anticipation, upset and joyous celebration….and it did not disappoint.
Up first were the cadets and juniors. Boasting over 150
competitors the divisions were busy and bursting with talent and it was
encouraging to see each competitors enjoying themselves and soaking up the
atmosphere. As patterns were called, this enjoyment quickly turned to
determination as the young competitors began to warm up and mentally prepare
for the task at hand. As always the patterns were performed to a high standard
and were a pleasure to watch. As we progressed from white belts to the senior
grades it was encouraging to see their competition experience shining through,
shedding light on the importance and positive impact these local events have on
the development of our junior competitors.
Once the patterns had finished it was time to pad up and
prepare for sparring. With supportive parents and club members cheering on from
the side of the ring everyone was excited to watch as the competitors stepped
onto the mat. As with previous STOMP Championships strong performances were put
in by all, and win or lose, each student showed the heart and determination of
a true Taekwon-Do practitioner.
After a short lunch break it was time for the Generation-X
Competition to begin. And to answer the question; Does Region 1 have the
(Generation) X Factor? ..........DEFINATLY!!!
As the young 4-7 year old students entered the arena the
occasion did not seem to faze them as they began to practice their routines.
Performing a punch self-defence pattern, the students were judged on power,
balance, breath control and good technique. This was a proud moment for the
instructors and parents alike, seeing the children confidently perform as
spectators watched on in ore. Competing way beyond their years we can
confidently say the future of Region 1 competitors is definitely looking
bright.
Once patterns finished it was time to get down to business
as the Generation-X padded up and warmed up for sparring. In full kit the
students were eager to step onto the mats and showcase all their hard work.
Using good ring craft coupled with effective blocking and counter-attacks it
was a true pleasure to watch.
We would like to share our thanks and appreciation to all
the students and supports that helped to make the event the success it was and
of course the judges and official that worked hard throughout the day. As you
may be aware all proceeds from the event will be going towards sponsoring our
elite competitors travelling out to the ITF World Championships 2014. On behalf
of the UK squad we would like to say a massive ‘THANK YOU’ for your support and
hope that with hard training and dedication maybe our STOMP Competitors of
today will be our World Champions of the future!!
Written by: Matt Brunger - 28th June 2014
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