On June 21st – 23rd, 2026, just befire the start of the South American Championships 2026, the beautiful city of Lima, Peru, hosted the 54th International Umpire Course (IUC), bringing together more than 50 participants from across Latin America (Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay as well as Canada and even two participants of Romania.
The IUC, as the South American Championships 2026, was organised by Master Tulio Flores Aguilar. GM Abelardo Benzaquen, Chair of the ITF Umpire Committee, conducted the course with a great routine after IUC53 in Canada just two weeks before and IUC52 in Guatemala four ago before.
Participants received comprehensive training on the latest ITF rules and regulations, ensuring that umpires, athletes, coaches, and officials are fully prepared for the 2026 ITF World Cup in Spain. The course served also as intensive theoretical and practical preparation for all the umpires participating at the South American Championships 2026.
The IUC was honored by the presence of special guests: GM Paul Weiler, President of the ITF, and Sbn Fernando Arrua, President of the South American Taekwon-Do Federation (FST). Sbn Arrua was accompanied by members of the executive committee of FST, Master Walter Peña (Paraguay), Master Tulio Flores (Perú) and Master Eduardo Oviedo (Chile), whose attendance further highlighted the importance of this international educational event.
The 54th IUC provided an excellent opportunity for education, discussion, and professional development, with attendees reviewing rules updates, competition procedures, officiating standards, and best practices that will be implemented at future international events.
From the ITF Umpire Committee we look forward to seeing the knowledge gained this weekend contribute to the continued growth and excellence of ITF Taekwon-Do officiating throughout South America and beyond.
Grand Master Abelardo Benzaquén
Chair of the ITF Umpire Committee
Report IIC193 – Limerick, Ireland
