Seminar by GM Jedut in Czech Republic

Over the weekend of November 16–17, the traditional National seminar with Taekwon-Do legend, Grandmaster Jerzy Jedut (IX Dan), took place. Nearly 90 practitioners from nine schools and three Czech Taekwon-Do organizations came together for the two-day event. Participants represented the organizing Czech National Union of Taekwon-Do, the Czech Taekwon-Do Association, and the Czech Taekwon-Do Federation.

The seminar program was designed similarly to previous years, but, like any living discipline, Taekwon-Do continues to evolve. Thus, constant study, practice, and improvement remain essential. This year, we had the privilege of learning from one of the best, as a significant change graced the gym: for the first time, Grandmaster Jerzy Jedut personally delivered the seminar. Once again, we extend heartfelt congratulations on his IX Dan achievement.

Those who attended previous seminars noticed another novelty. This year, Grandmaster Jedut was accompanied by two promising young students from his Taekwon-Do school: siblings Oliwia and Kacper Pietrzelka. These rising stars, with much of their competitive careers still ahead of them, already boast impressive achievements. Both are Polish junior champions, with Oliwia earning a bronze at the European Championships and Kacper taking silver at the World Cup.

Their presence significantly enhanced the demonstration of new drills, as these exercises are already a routine part of their training. The audience witnessed them executing previously unfamiliar drills with ease, precision, and even a smile.

As always, the largest turnout occurred during the Saturday morning session, when even the youngest practitioners trained under the Grandmaster’s guidance. The youngest participant, just seven years old, managed to complete the entire three-hour session with enthusiasm. It’s no wonder—Grandmaster Jedut delivered a comprehensive and varied training program, seamlessly blending detailed adjustments in basic techniques and patterns with games, pad drills, striking exercises, and even calisthenics.

The Sunday portion of the seminar saw a smaller attendance, as it was primarily reserved for Dan-level holders. However, this allowed the Grandmaster to provide more individual attention, helping participants refine and perfect their techniques.

As a token of gratitude for sharing his knowledge and expertise, we presented the Grandmaster with a special gift basket. It featured products from local artisans and small businesses privileged to bear the regional “Zápraží” mark. The basket included herbal tea blends and linden blossoms from Statek Svojetice, honey from Mr. Janovský of Mnichovice, Mnichovice gingerbread, a wicker basket by Mr. Čížek of Kamenice, and a mug adorned with the iconic Czech cat, Mikeš.

We would like to thank ShapeArt for producing new large-format flags and MV Print for consistently supplying promotional materials and certificates. A big thank you also goes to the Emil Kolben Elementary School, which has hosted this event since 2013. We extend our congratulations to the school on its 100th anniversary this year. And what more can we say? See yo