Report by Juan Martinez:
In the framework of the European Project “Taekwon-Do for the Rights” (project number 101133552), 15 dedicated young Taekwon-Do practitioners from Belgium, representing ITF Brussels, Red Force, Hwarang ITF Belgium, Bushido Jambes, and Taekwon-Do Gent, had the incredible opportunity to participate in an event held in Sofia, Bulgaria, from October 16th to 21st.
The Belgian team was supported by a committed staff of five members:
- Master Virginia Dionisi (ITF Brussels): Head Coach and Official Representative.
- Sabum Andreea Musca (ITF Brussels): Law Enforcement Officer and Coach.
- Bo Sabum Omar El Ferkhani (ITF Brussels): Volunteer and Umpire.
- Bo Sabum Juan Martinez (Hwarang ITF Belgium): Umpire.
- Gabriel Martinez (Hwarang ITF Belgium): Umpire.
This prestigious project united 10 countries: Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovenia, Greece, Romania, Poland, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Serbia, fostering a spirit of international camaraderie and cultural exchange.
On Thursday, October 17th, the Belgian delegation embarked on an enriching visit to the Museum of the Ministry of Interior, where they delved into the history and heroism of police and firefighter services. This was followed by an insightful tour of Sofia’s historic center, providing a deeper appreciation of the city’s vibrant past and architectural splendor.
On Friday, October 18th, all delegations visited the Police Academy in Sofia. While the competitors explored the academy’s facilities and experienced live demonstrations, delegation leaders took part in an engaging round table discussion, showcasing and exchanging ideas about their respective projects. Master Virginia Dionisi was chosen as a session moderator, exemplifying her leadership, while Sabum Andreea Musca represented Belgium’s law enforcement perspective. The morning concluded with a thrilling demonstration at the firefighters’ training center, highlighting their rigorous and impressive techniques.
In the afternoon, the delegations gathered for a Taekwon-Do Parade at the park near their hotel. The event was filled with energy as participants showcased Taekwon-Do techniques, culminating in a large-scale Chon-Ji tul performance led by Grand Master Jedut. This display of unity left a lasting impression on all present.
On Saturday, October 19th, and Sunday, October 20th, the competition commenced with 300 participants—15 from each country and 150 from the host nation, Bulgaria. The competitors engaged in a quadrathlon system, participating in four individual disciplines, four team events, and prearranged sparring, earning points based on their performance in each category.
The Belgian team shone brightly, winning a total of 10 medals:
- Gold Medals:
- Female Juniors Power Breaking Team: Heïdi Bewa (Bushido), Helin Capa (Taekwon-Do Gent), and Mayline Thirionet (Bushido).
- Heïdi Bewa (Bushido): Individual Female Junior Power Breaking.
- Lara Capa (Taekwon-Do Gent): Individual Female Pre-Junior Sparring.
- Lara capa (Taekwon-Do Gent): Individual Female Pre-Junior Tul 1st Degree.
- Silver Medals:
- Tristan Hunt (Hwarang ITF Belgium): Individual Male Junior Sparring (-75Kg, color belts).
- Tristan Hunt (Hwarang ITF Belgium): Individual Male Junior Tul (6th Kup).
- Chloe Siebesma (Red Force): Sparring.
- Bronze Medals:
- Heïdi Bewa (Bushido): Individual Female Junior Sparring (+85Kg, black belts).
- Helin Capa (Taekwon-Do Gent): Individual Female Sparring (black belts).
- Enya Creveceur (Bushido): Individual Female Sparring (color belts).
Both Belgian tul teams performed impressively, advancing through the first rounds before meeting strong competition from the Polish teams coached by Grand Master Jedut.
This project was an invaluable experience, combining the excitement of competition with the opportunity to understand the structure and atmosphere of a European Championship. Several black belt competitors represented their respective national teams, providing a unique learning experience for all involved. A standout aspect was the safe and inclusive power-breaking category for pre-juniors, using a dynamometer to minimize the risk of injuries and open participation to all belt levels.
Overall, “Taekwon-Do for the Rights” was a tremendous success, showcasing not only the athletes’ skill and determination but also reinforcing the core values of Taekwon-Do respect, perseverance, and unity. The Belgian team returned home not only with medals but with enriched perspectives and memories that will inspire their journey in Taekwon-Do for years to come.
Bo Sabum Juan Martinez