49 years of ITF in Sri Lanka

On 19^th December 1976, Taekwon-Do was introduced by Deshamanya Master Dr. Cyril Antony upon learning directly from the Founder of Taekwon-Do Gen. Choi Hong Hi in Canada, and the Sri Lanka Taekwon-Do Association was established on 19^th February 1977. Accordingly, this year marks the completion of 49 years since the introduction of Taekwon-Do to Sri Lanka.

The commemorative celebration of the 49^th Anniversary since introduction of Taekwon-Do to Sri Lanka was held on the 07^th December 2025 at the Wattala Pradeshiya Sabha Hall, Kerawalapitiya Junction, Hendala from 3.00pm onwards. Concurrently the 22^nd ITF National Taekwon-Do Championship was also held with the participation of many Taekwon-Do students showcasing their hard work, talents and skills from 9.00a.m. onwards.

During the event we took a moment to light candles to remember and celebrate the incredible contributions of General Choi Hong Hi, the founder of Taekwon-Do, and the International Taekwon-Do Federation. We are proud to honor his legacy, and his influence will forever guide Taekwon-Do. We also took a moment to remember the lives lost during the recent storm that devastated families islandwide.

Our athletes showcased amazing strength, skill, and dedication as they competed in Patterns, Sparring and Powerbreak events. They competed in Colour belt and Black Belt categories of Junior Female, Junior Male, Senior Female, Senior Male and Senior Male (Over 40years). The Electronic Scoring System used at the Tournament was developed by our very own Black Belt Instructors and the event was coordinated by Sabum Dr. Uditha Cyril Antony and Ms. Gayathree Nayanajeehwi.

The event was graced by Rev. Sr. Sunita Samarakoon – Principal of Good Shepherd Balika Maha Vidyalaya Nayakakanda, Dr. Dilushi Munasinghe – Senior Lawyer and Lecturer, Mr. Kamal Jayathilaka – Retired Air Force Officer, Mr. David Ribakov – Principal of All Nations International School, Retired DIG Mr. Ajith Hesiri, Mr. Saman Alankara – Film Director and Producer, Dr. Chandrakantha, Ms. Clera Hilda – Head Teacher of Good Shepherd Pre-School Nayakakanda.

We congratulate all the winners, and express our heartfelt thank you to all participants, umpires, parents, supporters and the guests who made this event a success.