Interview with Master Paul Weiler

How do you feel as a main organizer of the World Championships, 30 days before this event?

Presently I feel very good because we finished the most important affairs in time. 65 countries or even more will be present at the 14th World Taekwon-Do Championships but it depends also on the German Embassies.

Why you decided to organize the biggest event in the Taekwon-do circle, what was the reason?

After the organization of the AETF European Championship I did not want to organize an important tournament anymore. It was too much work and the entire free time over months was needed. Although my hair had become grey (joke), I was lucky at the end of the tournament, because many participating countries (altogether 27) were very content with this championship.

The challenge to organize the WC was not only to test our ability to organize such an important event but also to celebrate the 50th anniversary of naming the martial art Taekwon-Do and the 40th anniversary that the first ITF-Demonstration team visited Europe and Germany.

Have you ever been an organizer of similar event and do you have any experiences in this matter?

I have never been an organizer for such an important event. My experiences are based on the adjustment of the European championship, German open tournaments and the participation in 15 European Championships and 9 World Championships as competitor, referee and head of delegation.

What kind of support do you have?

I have a very good assistance by the members of the ITF Germany. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members cordially for their help rendered so far. The largest thanks apply however for my wife for her understanding and her indulgence with me during the preparation of this World Championship.

What is a source of the biggest problems?

The various problems with the visa requests.

What let the participants to remember the WC long time?

I cannot answer that, but I hope that they are content with the organization. I believe we have some beautiful surprises

How many countries send the applications to the WC? (statistic)

Up to now 63 countries.

Who in the German team has chances for a medal?

I will not betray that (smile).

What are your expectations as an organizer?

Many spectators and lucky participants.