ITF 48th Anniversary Malaysia Master Class & Elite Taekwon-Do Academy Penang Open Championships 2014
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On the 20th March Mr Matthew Brunger and Student
Ryan Hamdy travelled out to Penang, Malaysia to conduct a day’s Master class on
behalf Of ITF Secretary General Master Trevor Nicholls. After an exhausting
journey it was a pleasure to be met at the airport by Master Lau and the event
organisers who were willing to bend over backwards to ensure we were happy and
well looked after throughout our stay. After arriving at the hotel we sat down
with master Lau to discuss the weekends proceeding and enjoy a couple
light-hearted stories before retiring to our rooms.
As day broke we were up and raring to go. After a quick bite
to eat and introductions to country representatives we were chauffeured off to
the venue to conduct the Master Class. As Students began to enter the hall it
was exciting to see all in attendance so enthusiastic about the art and eager
to learn. After introductions made by Master Lau and a short speech
representing the thoughts and ideas of Master Nicholls, it was time to begin!
After a high paced warm up, the students were given time to
regain their focus and prepare themselves for junior tul work. Step by step we
broke down each pattern, identifying individual movements, discussing and
correcting technique before moving on.
After a short and well-earned water break we reformed our lines and the
students set themselves for the next section of the class. The second section
of the class set to identify and improve correct kicking lines and
understanding their application in a self-defence scenario. With an emphasis on
base techniques; front snap kick, side piercing kick and turning kick students
were instructed to first perform the kick by count, landing into guarding
stance progressing to a more relaxed free sparring techniques.
As mid-day arrived and to the relief of those in attendance,
it was now time for a well-earned lunch break, giving everyone a chance
recovery after a morning of hard, non-stop (yet enjoyable) training. On returning
it was time to present the Kup grades with their Master Class certification and
celebrate the ITF’s 48th Anniversary with a commemorative cake and
happy birthday sing along. With the Kup grades watching from the stands, we
swiftly moved onto degree tul, again breaking down the pattern and drilling
individual movements. After performing both first degree and second degree
patterns we had our final water break and prepared for the final workshop of
the day. Under strict orders from Master Lau ‘to make them sweat’ we instructed
a sparring workshop aimed at improving footwork and co-ordination whilst
attacking moving forward and in defence moving backward. To end the session we
finished with some effective sparring attacks working of the lead leg and some
quick counter ideas to combat them.
It was a long and tiring day, but one of excitement and
enthusiasm which shone throughout the Master Class. After closing speech we
retired to the hotel for a short rest before freshening up and heading out for
a nice meal. Once again the hospitality of master Lau and Host representatives
was second to none. The evening had a relaxed feel and with the drinks and
conversation flowing we all had an amazing evening. To round the night of Miss
Sharon Chan (who never stood still the whole weekend) was treated to a surprise
birthday celebration!!
Sunday morning, and again up early for the Penang open
Championships 2014 which we were very much excited to be attending.
Representing Master Nicholls, I along with Master Lau, Master Dantes Poon and the
event sponsors took to the stage to officially declare the Championships open
and watch the very impressive opening ceremony. The Competition ran
exceptionally well with umpires and officials working tirelessly throughout the
day and competitors supporting and cheering along fellow team members.
As we said our goodbyes and began our journey home, we had
the opportunity to reflect on the emotional weekend we had just had, full of
laughter, joy and excitement. We had the opportunity to meet some incredible
people along the way and the hospitality we received from Master Lau and his
team was beyond excellent. We hope to
see you all again soon.
Taekwon
Written by: Matt Brunger - 8th April 2014
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