On February 13-14, were held the Finnish National Championships to which attended over 200 participants.

On the first day, Black belts followed by senior color belts from all over Finland competed in patterns, sparring, traditional sparring as well as special techniques and power test. We were all happy to see that year after year the level is on a constant rise and that the cradle of future champions is acrually full of talents and the potential is big. The day was long, but everyone was pleased by the quality and effort Tampere Taekwon-Do Club put in organising the event. During that day ITF Finland presented its 2009 results yearly awards to: Best Competitor: Nyyti Korolainen from TKD Center for her world title at the last WC. Best Junior: Tiia Kiviranta from Tampere Taekwon-Do Club. Best Public Figure: former Chairman of ITF Finland, Anssi Kähärä for his results during his term and former treasurer Jari Airaksinen, Best Umpire: Lasse Kuusisto and finally best event: "Pikkutiikeri Cup", Little Tigers Cup children competition. A special award was given to Ismo Mäkinen for his lifetime achievement as competitor.

We all went home at around 21.30, but it was far for finished as...

 

The second day kicked off at 9.00 with hyperactive but so cute kids aged between 6 and 11 for the children division as well as the junior competition for the 12-17y.o. The categories were divided by high, weight and the kids faught fiercelly over each laundry pin as if their life depended on it, and performed surprisingly well in patterns as well as normal sparring and kids special techniques with an amazing 9y.o boy who was able to hit a target at 210cms. This day was by far the most fun for kids, umpires and spectators alike. Though it was Valentine's day, everyone was able to get home by 16.30 and spend a well deserved resting time with their loved ones. But the shock came when the news about GM.Tran loss reached us. Rest In Peace, Sir. You can count on us to keep the "Do" alive.

By Thierry Meyour
ITF Finland Board Member