Master Nicholls, Master Hogan and Mr Skyrme travelled to Hong Kong to conduct several seminars including an ITF Umpire course. The Technical Seminar conducted by Master Nicholls, Sparring by Master Hogan and the Umpire course was conducted by Mr Skyrme.
Saturday Afternoon / Evening was set for the Technical and Sparring Seminars along with a senior degree grading where 85 students participated ranging from 8th Kup to 7th Degree. Following the seminars a grading for 11 students was resided over by the grading panel where all candidates were successful.
Sunday saw the ITF umpires course conducted over 8 hours by Mark Skyrme. On site was the amended rule book and the official computerised scoring system. Over 100 participants were lead through the theory and the practical elements of an ITF Umpire. Many thanks to the Masters especially Master Hogan who play the role of an unruly coach (Role play so the new umpires could gain valuable experience) Master Nicholls, Master Lau and Master Poon. After completion all were presented with the certification.
A great trip, Master Lau and the Hong Kong TKD Council really looked after us. A trip none of us will forget, I also managed to get in a round of golf at Asia's most exclusive course "Shek O Country Club". Have a look at my personal gallery here if your interested.
Look out for the official articles to follow, these will be posted both here and on the ITF website.
Mark Skyrme