Irish National Taekwon-Do Assocation hosts the 17th INTA ITF International Open

The INTA under the leadership of Master Brendan O'Toole (VIII) were delighted to host their 17th ITF International Open in the National Basketball Arena, County Dublin.

The flagship event, which attracts a variety  of international competitors was run over two days and incorporated a sections for patterns, sparring, special  technique and destruction.  Members from all over the country as well as visiting teams from Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and  Belgium took part in the 2 day tournament.
This year the INTA were delighted to welcome 12 Masters as special  guest and were honoured that Grand Master Paul Weiler, Senior Vice President of the International Taekwon-  Do Federation and a pioneer for Taekwon-Do in Afric was able to attend.Also in attendance was Mrs Annick  Van Dressiche, President of ITF Belgium and Mr Leo Maguire from Northern Ireland.

 

The Saturday event was specifically focused on the junior colour belt members (5-15 years). With over 50  umpires, 7 ring councils ran smoothly and ensured that students were able to compete in three events spread  over 50 categories. On Sunday, the competition focused on over 100 competitors, including colour belts from 16  years and older and all junior and senior black belts. The high quality performances from all members but in  particular some of the younger black belts was encouraging. The tournament catered for an over 40 section  and allowed instructors the opportunity to take to the floor, with the support of their students the energy in the  early afternoon was fantastic. Mr Stobie (VI degree), head of INTA Umpire Committee was delighted with the  turnout and acknowledged the efforts put in by both umpires and students and M. Jeroen Wezelman,  tournament director, for all organisation.

This year the INTA also recognised the efforts put in by umpires over the two days and two awards were  presented to the Centre Referee and Jury President who performed above and beyond over the two days. Ms  Miriam Grogan was awarded Centre Referee of the tournament and Mr Niall Reynolds was awarded Jury  President.

A huge congratulations to both individuals.  At the end of the tournament, Master Douglas and Master O'Toole commented on how rewarding it was to see  the development of so many of their students over the recent years - many who started just a short few years  ago - who have now progressed to such a high standard of performance, and who are also now playing such  an active role in both the competing and organisation of events. The INTA would like to offer their  congratulations to all who took part.