On arrival in St. Petersburg, the warmth of the hospitality and professionalism of the organisers, already overwhelmed us. Along with members from Israel, Ireland, Greece and Uzbekistan, we spent Saturday with Master Lazaros Tsilfidis and other distinguished guests on a sightseeing tour of what is an amazing city, full of so many wondrous and historic sights.

On Sunday we arrived at the arena and the level of professionalism was clear to see; a futuristic, state of the art venue with electronic scoring across all rings, four huge TV screens showing all events, and to top it off there was the Final Gala in the evening with many special guests in attendance.

First competing was Miss Megan Brown, in Patterns, winning Bronze. Sparring saw her dominating, and taking Gold in a convincing final against Uzbekistan.

It was then time for the Gala Finals, and we were certainly entertained with many great fights, and a spectacle of shows in between bouts. Mr. Iain O’Hare fighting in the first of the finals, and after a strong performance took Gold against a formidable Russia opponent.

Both competitors showed their skill, and took their wins convincingly. A great event and experience for both competitors in preparation for the European Championships in six weeks time, in Finland.

After the competition we were treated to a wonderful Russian banquet, and party, with some dancing, speeches and great friendship.

I would like to extend our thanks to Master Tsilfidis and his amazing team of young enthusiastic people he has on board. On behalf of my team, and ITF Scotland I thank you for the warmth, friendship and hospitality shown to us over the weekend. If your looking for an international event to gain experience, this should be a must on your calendar, 900 competitors, 2 days, very high standard, easy and affordable to access. We will be back for sure.

Mr. John McIlvaney
ITF Scotland Team Manager

In the name of the Israeli Taekwon-Do I would like to thank Master Lazaros and the organizer of the Northern Palmira tournament in St. Petersburg Mr Oleg Krivoryk for bringing our delegation there and for taking care of all the details, for having an incredible time in there.

The tournament was wonderful with 900 competitors enjoying our dear art.

Thanks again
Leonardo Oros Duek

The Irish Taekwon-Do association were very happy to receive an invitation from Mr Oleg Krivoruk, President St. Petersburg Taekwon-Do Federation, to attend the Northern Palmira Cup 2016 - XI. International Taekwon-Do Tournament in St. Petersburg Russia.

Mr Adam Shelly, current world champion, Mr Stephen Cooley National Coach and Master Wheatley President, travelled to Russia on Friday March 18. The tournament, with 900 competitors, took place over two days at the very modern and well equipped Nova Arena Stadium.

On Saturday afternoon the International guests were brought by Master Lazaros Tsilfidis, President of Russia Taekwon-Do Federation, on a sightseeing tour to some of the most beautiful features in St Petersburg which we enjoyed very much.

Sunday evening was the Gala event at the Nova Arena, this comprised of Taekwon-Do demonstrations of pattern, power and self defence, beautiful dancers, singing and of course the main event were sparring matches between the International visitors and Russia's finest exponents.

Our compliments to the organising committee for the very high level of the arena, the four huge screens showing the matches from the rings, the lighting and music were all superb, this made for a very exciting event for the spectators and competitors.

Sunday night was the banquet, the organisers and guests took some time to relax and enjoy good food and great company into the early hours.

We are very happy to support out Taekwon-Do family in Russia and offer our sincere gratitude to the Russian Taekwon-Do Federation, Master Tsilfidis and Mr Oleg Krivoruk for the opportunity to visit and look forward to future cooperation and relationships.