A city of warm colours, Rome takes us through 3000 years of history from antiquity to the Renaissance period. The fountains flow generously, the sun shines brightly and, here, we feel a special humanity, a spirit imbued with kindness and characterised by “La Dolce Vita”. Rome is the theatre of culture but now is also witnessing an expansion of international sport. On the 17th April 2011, at the occasion of the 1st International Open City of Ariccia, the ITF Taekwon-Do athletes followed in the footsteps of Roman armies along the “via Appia” on their way to Ariccia, 30 km from Rome.

In this village, located in the heart of green volcanic hills surrounded by beautiful lakes, the Leojunkwan ITF Taekwon-Do school and the Taekwondo Rome Team welcomed athletes from various nations to Palariccia, an advanced and open sport facility. Three hundred and sixty seven participants were united by their passion in this competition. Their important participation could be also highlighted for its quality. All participants demonstrated more than sporting values, the both martial principles and spirit! In this competition, we have a strong feeling of respect towards each other and particularly towards our opponents. We had a clear demonstration of the five principles of ITF Taekwon-Do (courtesy, perseverance, self-control, integrity and indomitable spirit), led by the pleasure of the practice. It has been a long time since such an international event has been organised in Italy - for too long a time!

After the combined salute, first, children offered us an incredible display of talent. From 6 years old, this new generation showed a high technical level in Tul (Pattern) as well as in Sparring. Their innocent smiles attested to their own pleasure in practising. They both challenged themselves and measured themselves against the others. Many medals and cups were awarded, rewarding the quality of their personal investment. The children lit up the eyes of their proud parents. The ones that were not medal winners were not worried and kept on smiling. They know that, with perseverance, they will rise to the challenge once again next year.

The juniors and seniors followed, conquering the squares, supported by their coaches. Whatever the athlete is, coloured or black belts, man or woman, all went into the square giving their best, measuring themselves against others and expressing their art. Everybody enjoyed themselves tremendously. The high level of the competition was confirmed by the presence of famous champions with an international ranking: Katya Solovey from Ukraine, Silvia Farigu, Tiziano Longo, Christian Oriolani, Massimiliano Panelli and Massimo Persia, from Italy. They offered an amazing show to the audience, from novice to expert. Everyone appreciated this show. The interest of children and adults was captured. These talented athletes were an example for all, demonstrating technical excellence, respect and humility. Furthermore, we particularly notice the presence of Master Willy Van de Mortel as a coach of the Nederland team. We wish to acknowledge the presence of Master Gabi as a leader of the Lebanese delegation.

The Taekwondo Rome Team were awarded the Praetorian helm having won the most of medals. This Cup remains with the Rome team for the next year. We hope that the ITF Taekwon-Do fever of this event will attract even more competitors next year from even more different nations.

This competition was a way of assessment for some athletes, a step towards their own improvement and the opportunity to share a strong “martial” moment. In this intercultural martial arts event, people faced other cultures and met different approaches to ITF Taekwon-Do. Everybody learnt a great deal from themselves and from this plurality, united behind a common passion for ITF Taekwon-Do. Unanimously, the participants thank the professionalism of the organisers and umpires who made this event such a success.

Preparations for next year’s event are already underway with the 2nd International Open again being held in Ariccia. The organisers will do everything possible to make sure that next year event, built on the success of the first International open, is an increasing success!

See the results of the competition (MS xls, 43 kB).

More information available on www.openariccia.it.

See you all next year for the 2nd edition of The Seven Hills Battle!!!

Stéphanie Petit
Official Reporter Organization Committee