80 Taekwondo Practitioners Pass Grade Exams in Togo

The Togolese Taekwondo Federation (FTTKD) recently organized a grade exam for practitioners in Lomé, Togo. On November 8, 80 candidates successfully passed the exams, which assessed their skills in various disciplines. The exams, which were held for grades 1 to 4, drew participants from 30 clubs, including 20 women and girls. The successful candidates will be officially announced in two weeks.

The grade exams evaluated practitioners in several areas, including Kibon (basic movements), Poumsea (defense and attack forms), Hoshinsul (defense against grabs), attack and defense techniques, Kyukpa (breaking), kicking techniques, Kyurigi (sparring), and theory on movement names. Candidates for grade 4 also presented a 10-minute thesis on a chosen topic the day before. The exams catered to different age groups, with those under 16 participating in Poom tests and those 17 and above competing for higher grades.

The Kyurigi sparring event saw candidates competing against each other and against black belt holders, depending on their grade level. For the breaking event, candidates under 16 broke one wooden board, while those competing for grades 2, 3, and 4 broke two boards. FTTKD President Boyodi Hénoc expressed satisfaction with the exam's success, which was held after a two-year hiatus. He emphasized that the initiative aims to improve the skills of regular trainees.

Prior to the exam, candidates underwent a two-week training camp to prepare for the various events. President Hénoc encouraged practitioners to continue training and participate in future stages, which will be held in the northern region on November 15 and a year-end competition to be announced later. He stressed the importance of regular training and participation in stages to improve skills.

International instructor and coach Dégboé Josélito Léonidase assessed the candidates' level as acceptable, considering the over two-year interruption in activities that led to a decline in some athletes' skills. He invited supporters to organize inter-club competitions or small tournaments to provide young practitioners with opportunities to compete and maintain their physical condition.

Coach Léonidase emphasized the need for federation approval before organizing any competitions. He encouraged clubs to work together to promote the sport and help practitioners improve their skills. The successful grade exam is a significant step towards enhancing the skills of Togolese taekwondo practitioners.

The FTTKD's efforts to promote taekwondo in Togo are ongoing, with plans for future events and competitions. The federation aims to provide opportunities for practitioners to develop their skills and compete at various levels. With the support of coaches, instructors, and supporters, Togolese taekwondo practitioners can look forward to a brighter future in the sport.

Key points

• 80 Togolese taekwondo practitioners pass grade exams
• Exams assess skills in various disciplines, including sparring and breaking
• Federation plans future events to promote taekwondo in Togo