On the 20th June, students from Region 1 Taekwon-Do schools were invited to take part in the much awaited ‘STOMP SUMMER CHAPIONSHIPS 2015’, and with over 170 competitors in attendance we were all eager to watch the events of the day unfold. With rings set and official in place we were ready to go….

Competing first were the Generation-X divisions (4-7yrs). Confident, focused and determined were all words that came to mind when watched the young students take to the ring. Up first were the pattern divisions where the children were instructed to perform set punch and blocking combinations judged on power, technique and balance. This was a great chance for our youngsters to showcase all their hard work and dedication and as proud instructors and parents watched on in amazement, we can confidently say the future of Region 1 competitors is definitely looking bright.

Patterns done, it was now time to pad up prepare for sparring. Once again, the environment did not seem to faze the kids as they ran onto the rings ready to compete. As the bouts commenced, we were witness to Generation-X sparring at its finest. Throwing punches in bunches and well timed kicks, the umpires were left with the hard decision of selecting a winner. Perhaps more impressive was the friendship the children shared after every fight, taking each win and loss gracefully.

As the generation-X divisions were called to a close, the students were encouraged to stay on and watch Region 1’s finest battled it out for top spot on the podium. With Black belt divisions up, the young students circled around the ring to watch our European hopefuls as they showcased competitive Taekwon-Do at its very best.

After a short Lunch break the umpires regrouped and returned to their rings for the second part of the day.

It was now the turn our cadets and juniors to step up and perform. Up first were the pattern divisions and as we watched them being performed, it was fantastic to see the progression from our novice white belts to our experienced senior grades. Well done to all that took part and congratulations to our new STOMP champions.

Once the patterns had finished it was time to pad up and prepare for sparring. With strong support from the stand 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.

As a region we would like to share our thanks and appreciation to all the students and supporters that helped to make the event the success it was and of course the judges, official and junior umpires that worked hard throughout the day. As you will be aware, proceeds from the event go towards sponsoring our elite competitors travelling out to the ITF European Championships in Moldova, so on behalf of the UK Region 1 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 follow in the footsteps of our current International Competitors.