An Exceptional Year of Growth, Success, and Milestones

As 2024 comes to a close, we are incredibly proud to share the highlights and achievements of NZ ITF Taekwon-Do. From international success to community events, inclusive competitions, and personal milestones, this year has been one to remember. Here’s what we’ve accomplished together:

International Success – ITF World Cup, Uzbekistan

• ITF World Cup – Uzbekistan:

NZ ITF proudly represented New Zealand at the prestigious ITF World Cup, with 3 competitors: Ben Evans (his final competition before retirement), Jah Tapara, and Gabriel Bartlett. Together, they brought home 2 Gold Medals and 2 Silver Medals, an extraordinary achievement on the world stage.

Ben Evans’ retirement marks the end of an incredible competitive journey, leaving behind a legacy of success, leadership, and inspiration for all future athletes.

National Events and Inclusive Competitions

• NZ Inclusive Taekwon-Do Challenge (Hohepa Hawkes Bay):

We hosted this major event with 76 participants, celebrating the talent, inclusion, and dedication of students from all backgrounds. It was a day filled with pride, achievement, and community spirit.

• Successful Belt Grading:

This year’s grading was a huge success, with:

• 4 new Black Belts earned within the Inclusive Taekwon-Do program, a monumental achievement for our inclusive students.

• Many students advancing to their new color belts or stripes, showcasing their growth and dedication to Taekwon-Do.

Community and School Partnerships

• Expanding Taekwon-Do in Schools and Community Centres:

Our programs have grown in schools and centres, including Woodford School, Frimley Primary, Irongate School, Argyll East School, and the Paul Hunter Centre, ensuring Taekwon-Do is accessible to all students and abilities.

• Inclusive Fitness and Demonstrations:

We continued to host free inclusive training programs and engaging demonstrations, such as the Hastings Christian School event in front of 200 enthusiastic children.

Ongoing Inclusive Taekwon-Do World Championships

• Inclusive Taekwon-Do World Championships Online 2024:

This exciting international event has 15 countries and over 110 participants competing. The competition is currently underway, and we eagerly await the results, which are expected before Christmas.

Events like this showcase the power of inclusion in Taekwon-Do on a global stage and bring us all closer together.

Looking Ahead – Developing for the Future

We are now making plans to develop a competitive squad for the 2026 ITF World Cup in China. This is an exciting opportunity for our students, and we will keep everyone posted on who is eligible to trial for this team. Stay tuned for more details as we prepare for this journey!

Overcoming Challenges Together

This year hasn’t been without its challenges, but we’ve remained committed to growth, inclusivity, and excellence. We’ve seen continued success in welcoming new members, strengthening partnerships, and providing high-quality training to all students.

A Message of Gratitude

To our students, families, volunteers, and supporters—thank you for making 2024 such an incredible year. From local events to international competitions, every success belongs to you.

We are excited to continue building on these achievements and to celebrate even more milestones together in 2025.

Here’s to a year filled with unity, growth, and inspiration!