The South African Team last year returned home from South Korea, where they participated at the 1ST World Yong Moo Do Championships.
It was truly an incredible event with participating Nations from across the globe. It was especially special since it was being held in and hosted by the Mother Nation of so many brilliant martial art systems, including that of Yong Moo Do.
With Yong Moo Do being founded in Korea and developed as a uniquely Korean Martial Art of self-defense, the greatest battle for the SA Team would come from the Koreans themselves.
After spending time at Yong-In University in preparation for the event, the SA Team were ready to be a part of history and were determined to make there mark by leaving quite an impression in Korea.
Finally after much anticipation, the day had arrived. All the teams dressed in the official green heavy weight Dobok (uniform), each Nation clearly distinguishable by the embroidered Flag on their left Sleeve. As the teams marched onto the tournament arena, they were applauded and greeted by a very warm audience and countless Dignitaries from all over the World.
With our 9 member team, 2 officials, Roberto Camara (Team Manager), JP Camara (Team Coach) & 7 athletes Quintin Harman -85Kg (Team Captain), Ryan Muller -75Kg, Vernon Madondo -70Kg, Sakhe Maseti -65Kg, Michelle Oosthuizen -52Kg, Dominique Bouckaert -56Kg, Liesel Kok -65Kg and each participating in 2 individual and 1 team event, we pretty much had a hard days work cut out for us.
After a hassle free day of competition thanks to the well disciplined and extremely professional Korean organizing committee, officials and staff members, Team SA had earned themselves a number of superb victories and awards.
“It was an absolute honor traveling with this team; they were truly remarkable and most certainly outstanding Ambassadors for our country”. Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this World event for our team, all the sponsors and specifically RatSport.
JP Camara
Click on the link for a short 3min preview of the Yong Moo Do Championships:
