Over
120 competitors from HSTS and other local clubs came together on Sunday
22nd June for the HSTS inter-club competition. The day began at
10:00 with the Little Dragons (4-8 years old) performing 30-second
demonstrations of techniques and patterns. All the participants gave energetic
displays and performed very well in front of a large audience of parents and
competitors. The judges - junior black belts with plenty of competitive
experience themselves – were very impressed by the enthusiasm and range of
techniques from our youngest students.
Master
Horan led a short demonstration after awarding participation and winners’ medals
to the Little Dragons. Black belt students, including members of the squad
selected for the World Championships in Rome, performed patterns, sparring and
board breaks for the entertainment of the audience. Master Horan rounded off
the demonstration by performing some spectacular breaking techniques and the
24th and final pattern Tong-Il, showing what can be achieved by
continuing the journey of Tae Kwon-Do.
Next
on the agenda of a packed day of action was the cadet (age 8-13) patterns and
sparring. Strong performances in all categories kept the officials on their
toes, with narrow margins separating competitors in many of the divisions. The
cadets were followed onto the mats by the junior competitors (14-17), who
entertained the audience with some exciting displays and again demonstrated the
level of talent that has developed in recent years. The audience encouraged
all the competitors equally in the supportive spirit that is part of HSTS,
reminding us all that taking part is a victory in itself.
The
adult and senior divisions rounded off the patterns and sparring competitions.
The competition featured an excellent representation from both adult and senior
divisions, ensuring competitive and absorbing contests throughout. High
standards of technique were once again on display throughout, an example to all
students young and old.
As the
day drew to a close, the “matched opponent” competition concluded the day’s
action. Each entrant was paired off against an opponent of similar category to
spar for three three-minute rounds. A departure from standard ITF rules, the
longer contests forced the participants to stretch their fitness and tactical
abilities to be declared the winner.
As
always with the inter-club competitions every contest took place in a
competitive yet sporting atmosphere - facilitated by high quality officiating -
and was enjoyed by all.
Special recognition goes
to those involved in preparing and serving food and drinks, whose efforts not
only helped support the day’s fundraising target but also kept the officials
well fuelled. Our thanks also to the senior grades officiating at the top
table, who worked throughout the day to ensure the competition on the mats ran
smoothly.
Thank
you to all involved in a successful and enjoyable day, and we hope to see
everyone again at the next competition. Written by: Greg Rose - 28th June 2014
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