On December 10, 11, and 12, 2021, the last IIC of the year was held in the principality of Andorra.
It took place in the facilities of the Andorra Sports Palace.
It was undoubtedly an extremely relevant event for several reasons, first because it was the formal presentation of the Andorran Taekwon-Do Association as part of the ITF.
Then for having been the official confirmation of the TKD ITF as a national sport which was announced by the Secretary of Sports of the Principality of Andorra, Mr. Justo Ruiz.
Finally, after a long period of virtuality, being able to specify a new face-to-face event is undoubtedly a special satisfaction.
Master Leonardo Oros Duek, the president-elect of the AETF and head of this IIC, commented: “Without a doubt, it has been an honor to receive the announcement in person by the Secretary of Sports. And a great satisfaction also for having done it in the presence of ITF GM President Paul Weiler and Master General Secretary Tadeusz Loboda. “
Also present were representatives of Fuji Mae, the official sponsor of the event, who shared their satisfaction with the organizational quality of the IIC.
Due to the country’s restrictions, given the situation with Covid, only 60 participants could be received.
Still, 18 countries were present, giving it a color and diversity rarely seen.
Andorra, Germany, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Slovenia, Spain, United States, France, Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Dominican Republic, Czech Republic, Romania, and Ukraine were protagonists.
After the formal greetings, the first day began with a work session led by GM Paul Weiler on physical preparation and conditioning.
Next, GM Marano directed the section of shapes of color belts and, as always, answered the different queries that were arising.
Next, GM Lan worked on core concepts of personal defense.
After lunch, Maestro Fabián Izquierdo developed an introduction to the TKD Kids program.
As always, he developed the theoretical aspects of children’s didactics and demonstrated with various exercises the importance of the concept of play in learning.
And in the same way, how this methodology is applicable and highly positive in adults.
The second day began with the warm-up led by Master Virginia Dionisi, a special guest of the technical committee. It then continued with GM Marano reviewing the first dan forms.
Next, GM Lan worked on patterns of 2 dan and predetermined fight forms.
As always, we were discovering details that enriched the practice.
Then GM Marano continued with the 3 and 4 dan forms.
Meanwhile, GM Lan and Master Dionisi worked with the 1 and 2 dan.
In the afternoon, Master Leo Oros Duek, chairman of the Inclusion Committee, developed the central axes of the Adapted Taekwon-Do program. And although many of those present had already completed the whole course, they found many novelties that allowed them to broaden their perspective on the subject.
The participation of Master Izquierdo, who collaborated extensively in the writing of the Adapted Taekwon-Do guide for instructors, was crucial.
There was an atmosphere of camaraderie at the honor dinner that was missed.
The emotion of the anecdotes and the joy of the reunion was the main seasoning of a memorable night.
Master Duek, president of the organizing committee, presented plaques to the ITF authorities, exhibitors and special recognition to Silvina Carasi, unconditional collaborator in any event around the world.
On the closing day, GM Marano and GM Lan led the 4, 5, and 6 dan forms while Master Dionisi led the activity of the other graduations.
In the last segment, Master Andreu Martínez provided an excellent introduction to the Do Course generating significant interest and innumerable questions.
At the end of the working day, the Andorran Secretary of Sports was present again. In brief but consistent words, he expressed his satisfaction with the quality of the course and congratulated the organizers and participants.
Group photos and great emotion were the closing frameworks of an IIC that will undoubtedly remain in everyone’s memory.
From the Andorran Taekwon-Do Association, we appreciate the trust and unconditional support of the ITF.
We hope to continue honoring that trust.
Tips to keep #55: Prof. Dr. Janel Gauthier
