Tournament Director Greeting
Greetings!
It is my sincerest pleasure to invite you to the 27th International Taekwondo Festival 2023. We hope you have been well throughout these past few years as we dealt with an unexpected global pandemic that had turned our lives upside down. The world has changed because of Covid-19 and with all hardships comes great lessons in perseverance and I hope you are stronger and healthier today as we live each day with a deeper sense of gratitude. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to providing a clean and sanitary venue, with safe and fair matches for our athletes and a festive atmosphere for all.
I extend a warm greeting to returning participants and thank you for your unconditional support and patience. If this is your first time attending we are excited to have you experience the ITF tournament championship. I would also like to give my deepest appreciation to the Masters, Referees and Coaches who are devoting their time and energy to support Taekwondo and the Olympic Dream. Especially now, with the pandemic many schools have closed down and those open have dealt with many challenges. Your strength and commitment to continue to teach and promote Taekwondo is sincerely commended.
The International Taekwondo Festival is a place where athlete can come to compete, appreciate and celebrate Taekwondo at its finest! The purpose of the Festival is to give our athletes the opportunity to test their physical and mental skills and achieve their goals to develop a winning attitude in life. Our championship attracts high caliber athletes from all around the world, we have the best referees officiating and we are blessed every year with a successful tournament thanks to you. As a token of my appreciation for your support each competitor will receive a special souvenir gift.
Our 1st place winner World Class Sr. Division will receive the Grandmaster Chun Il Sup Cup. Jr. Division winner will receive the Grandmaster Hyuk Jong Kim Cup. Grandmaster Chun Il Sup is a pioneer for Taekwondo; he brought changes to tradition kyoroogi incorporating new techniques and creating the very first chest protector. In the history of Taekwondo, Grandmaster Chun Il Sup’s students grew into legendary Taekwondo figures. We would like to honor him for his dedication and contribution by presenting our winners with this special award. The Young In Cheon Taekwondo Spirit Award will be awarded to one male and female athlete who showcases a passion for Taekwondo, humility in their hearts and lives by the tenants of Taekwondo.
I look forward to seeing you all at the International Taekwondo Festival 2023!
Sincerely,
Grandmaster Young In Cheon
Tournament Chairman
2000 Olympic USA Team Head Coach