Dear ITF community,
It is known that the United Nations established March 8th as International Women’s Day, not just as a gender issue, but as the recognition of the struggle for equality and equal participation of women and men in the working world and society in general.
For that reason, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate women and to mention that ITF TKD is one of the areas where they have made significant progress both in quantity and technical quality.
I remember in my early years of practice, back in 1968, there was virtually no women training in Taekwon-Do (or indeed in other martial arts) and yet, they have been gradually integrated, enjoying our art, allowing us to enjoy their presence in the training.
There comes to my mind the memories such as the first letter received (being Secretary of the ITF), in which a formal order was made to allow women to join international events; as well as one of the first tournaments in which “women” appeared with their fierce attitude and a relaxed technique that left everyone present pleasantly surprised.
It was many years since international tournaments were only made up of men and very circumstantially, for some woman, until this present reality, where they have protagonist participation by majority.
And the number of female practitioners increases day by day!
So, for their tenacity, commitment and effort in earning a place now deservedly occupied, receive my sincere congratulations all the women who make our Taekwon-Do a better and more equal Martial Art.
Best regards,
Pablo Trajtenberg
ITF President
99th IIC – Norway – Report
