A Record-Breaking Year: Inclusive Taekwon-Do World Championships Online 2024
The Inclusive Taekwon-Do World Championships Online 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary, marking a historic milestone in the global celebration of martial arts. This year, the championship attracted over 120 athletes from 15 countries, making it the largest and most diverse event in its history.
The competition featured an incredible array of events, showcasing the skills, discipline, and unity that define Taekwon-Do. Athletes participated in:
- Patterns: Competitors demonstrated precision and technique through choreographed movements.
- Team Patterns: Groups came together to perform synchronized routines, exemplifying teamwork and coordination.
- Jumping High Kick: A fan-favorite, this event saw athletes achieve breathtaking heights with their kicks.
- Power Breaking: Participants displayed sheer strength and focus by breaking boards and other materials.
- Unified Abilities: This inclusive category celebrated athletes of all abilities, highlighting the true spirit of Taekwon-Do.
- Supported Journey: A unique event where higher-grade participants worked with lower-grade athletes to help them participate and achieve their best, fostering collaboration and mentorship.
This year’s championship was a true global celebration, with countries such as New Zealand, Russia, Netherlands, Ireland, Greece, Morocco, USA, South Africa, Italy, Mozambique, Norway, Nepal, Argentina, Estonia, and England competing for top honors.
New Zealand emerged as the standout nation, dominating the medal table with 36 gold, 13 silver, and 7 bronze medals. Russia and the Netherlands also delivered exceptional performances, securing numerous medals and thrilling audiences worldwide.
The 2024 championship will be remembered not only for its record-breaking participation but also for its spirit of inclusion and sportsmanship. Athletes from all corners of the globe came together to compete, inspire, and celebrate the unifying power of Taekwon-Do.
Individual Highlights
- Overall Male 18-34: Dmitriy Demidov (Russia)
- Overall Female 18-34: Aine Curtin Carley (Ireland)
- Junior Male 14-17: Daniel Fargher (New Zealand)
- Junior Female 14-17: Tasnime Aouattah (Netherlands)
- Junior Male 5-13: Egor Dragunov (Russia)
- Junior Female 5-13: Sarah Morgan (Ireland)
- Veteran Male 35+: Paul Curtis (New Zealand)
- Veteran Female 35+: Jenny Plummer (New Zealand)
Mainstream Division Shines in the Inclusive Taekwon-Do World Championships Online 2024
As part of this year’s Inclusive Taekwon-Do World Championships Online 2024, a special Mainstream Division was introduced, allowing athletes from mainstream categories to showcase their talents and compete on the global stage. This subdivision created an additional platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills, contributing to the inclusivity and success of the event.
Outstanding Performers in the Mainstream Division
The Mainstream Division witnessed remarkable performances from athletes across various age categories. Their determination, skill, and passion for Taekwon-Do made this division a highlight of the championship. The standout winners included:
- Overall Champion Female 14-17: Sophia Tsiklauri (Russia) Sophia showcased exceptional technique and precision to claim the top spot in her category.
- Overall Champion Male 5-13: Rayan Khadka (USA) Rayan’s incredible performance highlighted the emerging talent of young Taekwon-Do practitioners.
- Overall Champion Female 18-34: Kiriaki Despina Kotridou (Greece) Kiriaki’s dedication and mastery of Taekwon-Do earned her the coveted title in the female adult category.
- Overall Champion Male 18-34: Vitaly Gorbatikov (Russia) Vitaly’s power and skill cemented his position as the best in the male adult category.
This addition to the championships further underscored the diversity and inclusivity that Taekwon-Do represents. It provided a meaningful opportunity for mainstream athletes to compete at the highest level while inspiring audiences worldwide with their performances.
Looking Forward
The success of the Mainstream Division in this year’s championship sets a promising precedent for future events. It highlights the value of creating opportunities for athletes from all backgrounds and skill levels to compete, grow, and excel in the art of Taekwon-Do.
Special Thanks
A special thanks goes out to all the umpires and representatives who dedicated their time and effort to ensuring the success of this year’s online world championship. It was a monumental task, and their commitment to fairness and excellence was truly remarkable. We extend our gratitude to:
- Matthew Madsen (Australia)
- Badal Adhikari (Nepal)
- Vitaly Gorbatikov (Russia)
- Neil Morris (England)
- Ben Evans (New Zealand)
- Kathleen Flanagan (Ireland)
Your hard work and dedication made this championship possible and unforgettable.
Overall Country Rankings
- New Zealand: 36 Gold, 13 Silver, 7 Bronze
- Russia: 17 Gold, 6 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Netherlands: 6 Gold, 3 Silver, 7 Bronze
- Ireland: 6 Gold
- Greece: 3 Gold, 4 Silver, 3 Bronze
- Morocco: 2 Gold, 3 Silver
- USA: 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze
- South Africa: 2 Gold, 1 Silver
- Italy: 1 Gold, 1 Bronze
- Mozambique: 1 Gold
- Norway: 2 Silver
- Nepal: 1 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Argentina: 1 Silver
- Estonia: 1 Silver
- England: 1 Bronze
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