The Aldershot, Combat Sports Centre hosted the Army World Taekwondo Squad Training and Team Selection over the period 12-15 Jul 22. Players were put through their paces by Army coaches and A Class Referee and Instructor, Master Paul Timms. A great week of training culminated in the squad selection and subsequent Interservices’ competition at HMS Nelson on 17 Jul 22. Team Army proudly defended the crown and took victory in all Female and Male, Kup and Dan grade competitions. Indomitable spirit was the driver when Army players dug deep to keep energy and concentration levels high while faced with unprecedentedly high UK temperatures, and while competing in body armour and helmets. Some great fights and patterns on the day, with the ladies, Cpl Sophie Bladek and LCpl Asmita Rai, drawing in the crowds with their excellent fight skills and spirit. The majority of Army fighters have now been selected for the United Kingdom Armed Forces Team (UKAFT); well done, Kihap!
For the remainder of the year, Army fighters will be taking part in several regional and national competitions with the highlight being the British Taekwondo National Championships in Sheffield (UKAFT) in Sep 22. Next collective event is the WT Gradings, Skills and Coaching Course in Aldershot, 24-28 Oct 22. Interested then contact Stephen.Gibbons168@mod.gov.uk
