Over 100 Taekwondo athletes took part in the 2025 Korean Ambassadors Championship held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva on Saturday. The competition included teams from Vanuatu and Kiribati, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere as participants showcased their skills. This marks the 11th year of this championship, which has seen increasing interest in the sport, according to Taekwondo Fiji President Saverio Ieli.
Ieli noted, “Seeing the immense interest in Taekwondo is amazing,” highlighting the involvement of various groups from locations including Suva, Nakasi, and Nadi. The championship is designed not only to promote competition but also to instill essential self-defense skills and discipline among young athletes. Notably, students from schools such as Suva Grammar and DAV participated, indicating the outreach efforts in schools.
A significant aim of the event is to guide children away from negative influences like drugs and violence, utilizing Taekwondo as a positive reinforcement in their lives. Ieli expressed his hope that the championship would help identify and nurture talent that could represent Fiji on international platforms and secure scholarships for further development.
Additionally, this championship follows a pattern seen in previous competitions, such as the President’s Cup, where young practitioners have the chance to engage in rigorous competition and demonstrate their skills. The consistent effort to promote Taekwondo in Fiji reflects a broader commitment to using sport as a means to build community spirit and competitive excellence.
Looking forward, the ongoing engagement and support for these young athletes suggests a promising future for Taekwondo in Fiji, inspiring the next generation as they prepare for greater challenges both locally and internationally.
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