Shillong, May 16: The 2nd Meghalaya Open Taekwondo Championship and the 1st State Level Taekwondo Championship (Kyorugi and Poomsae) commenced on Saturday at the Laban Sports Club, Shillong, with Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Speaker Thomas A. Sangma attending the opening ceremony as Chief Guest.
The two-day championship, organised by the All-Meghalaya Taekwondo Association, has brought together hundreds of taekwondo athletes from Meghalaya, West Bengal, Assam, Sikkim, Nagaland and Mizoram. Among the dignitaries present were Sabitri Pradhan, a Kyorugi International Referee and seven-time World Champion; Lee Wang Yong; Suman Tamang; and Joseph Thansanga.
Addressing the gathering, Speaker Thomas Sangma revealed that he too had been a taekwondo player during his youth, drawing applause from the audience. He described taekwondo as more than just a sport, saying it teaches discipline, integrity and respect. “Taekwondo is not only a sport but it is a way of life,” he said while expressing happiness at seeing participants ranging from toddlers to adults taking part in the championship.
Encouraging the athletes, the Speaker said that while only a few may emerge as winners, there are no real losers in sports. “You win or you learn,” he remarked. He further stated that Meghalaya remains committed to promoting sports and creating opportunities for youth to excel at the state, national and international levels. He also urged young athletes to draw inspiration from the achievements of Sabitri Pradhan and said that participating in such a championship itself was a significant achievement.
The Speaker later commanded a demonstration bout, officially inaugurating the championship. A special Poomsae demonstration was also presented by athletes of the All-Meghalaya Taekwondo Association, impressing spectators with their discipline and synchronised performances.
The championship venue also drew loud cheers as young children, dressed in crisp doboks, confidently stepped onto the mat and showcased their routines with remarkable focus and determination.
