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Event Report 5th Global Open Taekwondo Championships

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On April 16, 2025

In News

Event Report

5th Global Open Taekwondo Championships

event report

Event report – The 5th Global Open Taekwondo Championships  held on  Saturday 5th April, 2025 at the Caroline Springs Leisure Centre was a huge success, with over 150 registrants from 6 countries and clubs from across Australia.

Participants travelled from as far as Nepal, Singapore, New Zealand, Canada and across Australia from as far as Katherine, Rockhampton, Port Pirie and Toowoomba, as well as New South Wales, Canberra, Queensland and South Australia.

The event was open for all ages, all ranks and all Taekwon-D0 practitioners and featured both ITF style and WT style events, for well over a decade now, making the pioneer event of it’s kind in the World.

Events included

  • ITF & WT Individual Sparring
  • ITF & WT Team and Individual Patterns/Forms
  • Open Self Defense demonstrations
  • Open Weapons forms demonstrations 
  • Special Needs Patterns / Forms

 

VIEW THE FULL RESULTS

THANK YOU

A big and heartfelt thank you to all who came and supported, participated, volunteered and cheered from the sidelines. Without you the event would not have been possible, let alone so successful.

We look forward to seeing you all, and more, back in 2026 where we will continue to innovate and improve the event even further, making it a ‘must attend’ celebration for the wider Taekwondo community.

Keep an eye out for announcements in the coming months.

Taekwon

Michael Muleta – Event Organizer & Host

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India 7

ITF India Masterclass with Master Michael Muleta

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On August 1, 2024

In News

ITF India Masterclass with Master Michael Muleta

ITF India Masterclass

On 27th July, 2024 the ITF India Council (MO377) hosted an ITF sanctioned Masterclass conducted by ITF under Secretary, Master Michael Muleta, 8th Degree from Australia.

The Masterclass was attended by members across various Indian regions, under the International Taekwon-Do Federation banner of President Choi Jung Hwa, as well as from United ITF Australia (INO23).

In very warm Chennai conditions, students underwent 6 hours of vigorous training, in ITF Fundamentals, with a focus on power application and development, ITF Gup and Black Belt Patterns along with some Tournament Sparring drills.

The work rate and concentration was intense and the camaraderie among the group was wonderful, given various ITF India organizations were represented.

The ITF India Masterclass was held at the Decathlon Sports Centre in Nolambur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu region of India. Master Muleta, who is also the CEO of Global Fitness Institute, was quite impressed with both the Sports Centre and retail outlet, visiting several locations in Chennai during his stay.

Thank you to Mr Radhakrishnan (ITFIC) and Mr Parvendhan for their hospitality and organization.

We look forward to the next opportunity to bring India groups together to exchange training ideas and friendship.

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India

ITF Masterclass India

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India 2

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India 3

ITF Masterclass India

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India 4

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India 5

michael muleta ITF Masterclass India 6

Global Open Champs 2024

Global Open Champs Event Report

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On June 18, 2024

In News

Global Open Champs Event Report

Global Open Champs report

The 4th Global Open champs held in Melbourne over the King’s Birthday long weekend was a huge success. 

Hosted and organized by United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia, 24 schools took part from across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore.

Events in the Global Open Champs included both ITF and WT Sparring, ITF Team Sparring, ITF & WT Team Patterns/Poomsae, and Special Needs categories.

Outstanding clubs were White Tigers Taekwondo (Melbourne, Vic) in the WT events, and Titan Martial Arts (Newcastle, NSW) in the ITF events.

The unique format of the Global Open Champs has been successfully run by event organizer Master Michael Muleta, for more than a decade, allowing both ITF and WT participants to compete in both events.

Students from Fusion Martial Arts, Macleod Taekwondo and Geelong Taekwondo participated in both formats.

We encourage participants to try their hand at both formats to build an appreciation for each variation of our martial art, and break down the stigma and politics that widely exists between styles.

United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia National Tournament Director, Justin Chin, did a wonderful job overseeing the ITF events, while Master James Heenan and his team did a wonderful job in the WT events.

The evening after the event featured the 6th ITF Hall of Fame Awards, and on the following day an ITF-sanctioned Masterclass was conducted by Master Muleta. The seminar featured instructors and students from all across Australia.

Thank you to all clubs who participated, the great team of volunteer officials and in particular those who travelled from afar and overseas.

Next year’s 5th Global Open Champs is pencilled in for Melbourne on the Labour Day long weekend, commencing 8th March, 2025

global open champs medal tally

FULL RESULTS

 

Global Open Taekwondo Championships Gallery

Michael Muleta Karate Seminar

Karate Seminar success with Master Muleta

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On March 14, 2024

In News

Karate Seminar success with Master Muleta

Master Michael Muleta Karate seminar

 

Master Michael Muleta recently ran a Seminar for the Kenryukan Karate Jutsu Dojo in Brisbane.

The seminar was organized and hosted by highly respected Australian martial artist, Shihan Nigel McReaddie.

Michael Muleta is an 8th Degree Black Belt (ITF) a master instructor, international coach and A-class referee.

The participants, made up of senior instructors from Shihan’s and Sensei’s, along with seasoned international competitors,  enjoyed a ‘wheelbarrow’ full of technical tips and tricks on utilising both hand and foot technique for competition (contact) oriented sparring.

In a comprehensive high paced session, Master Muleta was able to provide value to the very experienced participants,  adding to their existing knowledge and skills in sparring; feints, counters, reading your opponent, setting up, distancing, posture, balance, stability, timing, stretching, and so on.

Drawing upon his experience as a Senior Physical Education teacher, and CEO of Global Fitness Institute, Master Muleta also spent some of the time discussing physical preparation for training and sparring.

It was very much a mutually respectful ‘learning environment’ at the Kenryukan, with like-minded martial artists across multiple styles, sharing knowledge and commonality.

We would like to thank Shihan McReaddie and the crew at the Kenryukan for the unique opportunity, and the honour of being invited to share some training experiences together.

muleta karate seminar

 

Master Michael Muleta is available to all schools and martial arts for seminars across a wide range of topics from technical training, competition training, self defense, umpiring, event organization, fitness, strength and conditioning, first aid, nutrition, sports psychology, and school promotions and management, and business.

CONTACT MASTER MULETA to discus your seminar needs.

Michael Muleta ITF Taekwondo

Nepal ITF Masterclass Huge Success

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On February 28, 2024

In News

Nepal ITF Masterclass Huge Success

Nepal ITF Masterclass Michael Muleta

On the 24th-25th February, 2024 Taekwondo ITF Nepal organized an ITF sanctioned Masterclass and hosted the 4th Everest Open International Taekwondo Championship, held at Dhanwontari futsal stadium, Kathmandu, Nepal .

The ITF Masterclass conducted by Master Michael Muleta ( 8th Degree) president of United Taekwondo ITF Australia (INO23), and Under Secretary of the ITF body. He was assisted by Master Laxman Basnet, (7th Degree) President of Taekwondo ITF Nepal .

The Masterclass focused on sparring combinations and strategies, ITF patterns , kicking drill and self defense techniques.

192 participants took part in the Masterclass from India , China , Netherlands, Australia and from many schools across Nepal

The 4th Everest open international open Taekwondo championship was then held on 25th with 211 players and officials from same countries.

There were 44 categories across sparring and tuls.

In the medal ceremony Chief Guests were Former Nepal Government Minister Biraj Bahadur Bista special visiting guest Master Michael Muleta from Australia.

Additional special guests included Arie Hogandooran member of ITF Royal Dutch from Netherlands, and a regular visitor to Nepal, Mr. Radhakrishnan Puthanpura, President of ITF Council of India , Mr. Chen Liu from China ITF.

Along with Master Laxman Basnet, all guests distributed medals and certificates to all winners and place getters.

Master Muleta said in the closing ceremony speech, that on this, his third seminar and championships visit to Nepal, that he was pleased that on each occasion the quality and quantity of students, instructors and officials skills have continued to grow and improve.

This, he said, was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Master Laxman Basnet In closing, Master Basnet gave special thanks to all supporters who help make this event so successful.

Everest Open International Championships

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On January 17, 2024

In News

Everest Open International Championships

Everest Open International Championships

Dear all Taekwondo Members, Taekwon-Do ITF Nepal is proudly invites you and your students to take part in the ITF-Sanctioned “Taekwon-Do Technical Seminar by Master Michael Muleta” & “4th Everest Open International Taekwondo Championship” (24th- 25thFeb,2024).

Both events are for all members of the Taekwon-Do family, regardless of affiliation, age, rank or Nationality.

For more information, or to register Contact:

Master Laxman Basnet

kavreitf@mail.com.np

info@itfnepal.com.np

All ages, all ranks are welcome to attend.

Thank you
Yours in Taekwondo
President
Master Laxman Basnet

 

EVEREST OPEN INTERNATIONAL – ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Organizer:
Taekwondo ITF Nepal, Kathmandu Nepal
whatsapp, viber +977 9851076081
Email: kavreitf@mail.com.np
www.facebook.com/taekwondoitfnepal

Kathmandu Weather:
The Average temperature for February L: 5 H: 21
Visa Information for entry to Nepal and Visa Fees
https://www.immigration.gov.np/page/visa-on-arrival
Only 12 countries need visa and rest of country can get on arrival visa at airport, if you need any help for visa please contact organizer.

Everest Open International – Schedule of Events:

February 23th Friday:

Arrival & Registration

February 24th Saturday:

7.00am-8.00am – Breakfast

9:00am– Taekwondo technical workshop
12.00pm -13.00pm Lunch break
13.00pm – 16.00pm Taekwondo technical workshop
16.00pm – Tea Break
17.00pm weight in and draw for open championship
19.00pm Dinner

February 25th Sunday

7.00am-8.00am – Breakfast
8.00am – official and coaches meeting
8.30am –Championship Start
13.00pm -14.00pm – Lunch Break.
14.00pm – 15.30pm championship continue
16.00pm -Medal Ceremony and closing ceremony
19.00pm Dinner/party

February 26th Monday
7.00am – 8.00am Breakfast, site seen and departure

If anyone wants to visit city tour or out of Kathmandu or tracking we will arrange it. It will cost extra. For details pleases contact us

Tammy Todd Vale

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On December 28, 2023

In News

Tammy Todd Vale

On behalf of the Executive and members of United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia, and the International Taekwon-Do Federation under Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa, we extend our deepest sympathies to Kye & Dave Todd, on the passing of their beloved Mother & Wife, Tammy.

Those who knew Tammy will recall fondly her passion for Taekwon-Do, her incredible support of her son Kye and the Australian Team on many International and Domestic events, whether as a supporter or photographer.

She worked tirelessly and diligently for the Azure Taekwon-Do club in Mount Gambier and Millicent.

The Todd family have had a close association with the ITF National Organization, United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia, for over 2 decades, with Kye a regular and outstanding National Team Athlete at ITF World Championships, and multiple National & State champion.

Tammy will be sadly missed by all who came in contact with her, and we thank her for her loyalty, support and friendship over many years.

I fondly recall many conversations with Tammy about Taekwon-Do, and life in general. As one would expect, she was super proud of her son’s achievements and more so the character and humility he displayed.

May she rest in eternal peace, free from pain.

Michael Muleta, President, United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia

ITF Taekwon-Do logo

Join ITF for 2024

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On December 27, 2023

In News

Join ITF for 2024

ITF Taekwon-Do

Join ITF to ensure your school is an official member of the International Taekwon-Do Federation.

This can easily be done via affiliation to your country’s National Organization.

united itf online

Join ITF in Australia by affiliating to United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia Inc, Australia’s largest and most successful ITF National Organization since 2002

Celebrating over 20 years of Unity, Stability & Success

Affiliation to United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia gives you:

  • Access to Official ITF Degree certification and membership for instructors and students
  • Affiliation to United ITF Taekwon-Do Australia , the Official National Organization for ITF
  • Discounted rates for state and national events (tournaments, seminars, camps)
  • Opportunity to Officially represent Australia at ITF World Championships / ITF World Cup events.
  • Be part of the ITF led by Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa, the only son of  TKD Founder, General Choi Hong Hi
  • Be a part of a successful, transparent and democratic Organizations, where all schools have a voice.
  • Be part of an Organization that operates as a registered non-profit organization, not a private business.
  • Join the leaders in ITF in Australia since 2002, under the Presidency of Master Michael Muleta.

Make the move today & never look back

United We Stand

JOIN ITF IN AUSTRALIA HERE

 

Unfortunately in this country, and globally, there are numerous schools and associations who incorporate the ITF acronym into their name, to mislead members into thinking they are linked to the ITF.

Black Belt Degree certification is often designed to look almost identical to the genuine ITF certificate.

Whilst all of these organizations may perform similar techniques to the ITF, and use the name of the ITF, it does not mean they are members of the ITF.

If you are unsure or confused about the ITF status of your Black Belt certification, your school or your organizations, CONTACT US for clarification.

 

To Join ITF in other countries, contact ITF administration

Korean Martial Arts – a brief history

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On October 22, 2023

In Blogs

Korean Martial Arts – a brief history

Korean Martial Arts

The history of Korean martial arts, often referred to as “Muye” or “Muyedobotongji,” is rich and diverse, with a lineage that dates back thousands of years. They have been influenced by various factors, including indigenous Korean fighting systems, Chinese martial arts, Japanese martial arts, and more.

Here’s an overview of the history of Korean martial arts:

  1. Ancient Korea:
    • Korea has a long history of indigenous martial arts, some of which were documented in ancient texts such as the “Samguk Sagi” and “Samguk Yusa.” These texts mention the use of martial arts in battles and competitions as far back as the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 668 AD).
  2. Influence from China:
    • During the Three Kingdoms period, Korean warriors were exposed to Chinese martial arts techniques through cultural exchanges and conflicts with Chinese forces.
  3. Silla Dynasty:
    • The Silla Kingdom (57 BC – 935 AD) is known for developing a unique martial art called “Hwa Rang Do.” The Hwa Rang were an elite group of young warriors who trained in various combat skills, ethics, and philosophy.
  4. Goryeo Dynasty:
    • The Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) saw further development of Korean martial arts. The “Muyejebo,” an illustrated manual, documented various martial techniques, weapons, and training methods during this period.
  5. Joseon Dynasty:
    • The Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) contributed significantly to the codification and organization of martial arts. The “Muyejebo Beonyeok” (1599) and “Muyedobotongji” (1790) are important texts that outlined the various martial techniques of the time.
  6. Japanese Occupation:
    • During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), many aspects of Korean culture, including martial arts, were suppressed. Some Korean martial arts masters continued to practice in secret.
  7. Post-World War II:
    • After World War II and the liberation of Korea from Japanese rule, martial arts experienced a revival. Various martial arts schools and organizations were established. Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its high kicks and dynamic movements, was officially recognized in 1955.
  8. International Recognition:
  9. Other Korean Martial Arts:
    • Besides Taekwondo, there are many other Korean martial arts with distinct styles and techniques. Some of these include Hapkido, Tang Soo Do, Kuk Sool Won, and more.
  10. Modern Developments:
    • In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional Korean martial arts and their historical roots. Efforts to preserve and promote these arts continue.

Korean martial arts are diverse, encompassing striking techniques, grappling, self-defense, and traditional weapon forms. They emphasize not only physical prowess but also mental discipline and moral values.

Their history reflects the nation’s cultural heritage and its enduring commitment to preserving these ancient traditions.

korean martial arts

What are some of the characteristics of the different martial arts of Korea ?

  1. Taekwondo:
    • Kicks: Taekwondo is renowned for its high, fast, and powerful kicks, including the roundhouse/turning kick, sidekick, and axe/downward kick.
    • Emphasis on speed and agility: Taekwondo practitioners focus on quick and precise movements.
    • Forms or Patterns (Poomsae / Tul): Practitioners learn a series of choreographed movements to develop technique and discipline.
    • Competitive Sparring: Taekwondo features Olympic-style sparring (WT), with points awarded for controlled and accurate kicks or Traditional type sparring (ITF) which also features more emphasis on hand techniques as well as kicks.
  2. Hapkido:
    • Joint locks and throws: Hapkido places a strong emphasis on joint manipulation, throws, and locks for self-defense.
    • Circular motions: Techniques often use circular movements to redirect an opponent’s force.
    • Pressure points: Hapkido practitioners may target specific pressure points for incapacitation.
    • Practical self-defense: Hapkido is known for its practical and versatile self-defense applications.
  3. Tang Soo Do:
    • Hand and foot techniques: Tang Soo Do incorporates both hand and foot techniques, often focusing on powerful strikes.
    • Forms (Hyung): Forms help develop discipline, balance, and technique.
    • Traditional uniforms: Practitioners wear doboks with specific belt colors to denote rank.
    • Focus on discipline and respect: Tang Soo Do emphasizes the mental and spiritual aspects of martial arts.
  4. Kuk Sool Won:
    • Comprehensive system: Kuk Sool Won encompasses a wide range of techniques, including strikes, joint locks, throws, and weapons.
    • Forms (Hyung): Practitioners learn forms that include various techniques and combinations.
    • Weapons training: Kuk Sool Won includes training with traditional Korean weapons like the staff, sword, and fan.
    • Healing techniques: It incorporates traditional Korean healing methods and acupressure.
  5. Gumdo (Kumdo):
    • Swordsmanship: Gumdo focuses on the use of the Korean sword, known as the “katana.”
    • Forms (Hyung): Practitioners learn various forms that simulate combat scenarios with the sword.
    • Cutting practice: Students often practice precision cutting with a sharp blade on bamboo or straw targets.
    • Emphasis on discipline and etiquette: Gumdo places importance on the mental aspects of martial arts.
  6. Sunmudo:
    • Meditation and breathing: Sunmudo combines martial arts with meditation and deep breathing exercises for physical and mental well-being.
    • Circular movements: Techniques involve circular motions and flowing forms.
    • Stress relief and relaxation: Sunmudo aims to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
    • Minimal contact sparring: Sunmudo typically avoids heavy sparring, focusing more on meditation and energy cultivation.

These are just a few examples of Korean martial arts, each with its own unique characteristics, techniques, and philosophies. Additionally, there are many more traditional and modern variations within the Korean martial arts spectrum.

Happy 68th Anniversary Taekwondo

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On April 11, 2023

In News

Happy 68th Anniversary Taekwondo

Happy 68th AnniversaryOn April 11th, 2023 we celebrate the Happy 68th Anniversary Taekwondo with practitioners from around the World and on social media.

The name Taekwondo is derived from the Korean word “Tae” meaning foot, “Kwon” meaning fist and “Do” meaning way of. So, literally Taekwondo means “the way of the foot and fist”.

Whilst various versions of Taekwondo history would have it dating back centuries, the name Taekwondo, however, has only been used since April 11th, 1955.

CHECK OUR TAEKWONDO HISTORY PAGE

It is important to note, this is several years before the formation of the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), and even more years before the existence of the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF).

This original TaeKwonDo began as military training tool for actively serving forces, which later became a martial art accessible to the public, and today features a large sports component, as can be evidenced by the many tournaments, including the Olympic Games.

While a combination of politics, nationalism and other factors saw Taekwon-Do split into these 2 major streams decades ago, not to mention the abundance of offshoots and variations that exist today, we should embrace that it is a celebration for us all.

We were fortunate in Australia to have had the opportunity to attend many General Choi Hong Hi seminars, Happy 68th Anniversaryparticularly through the 1990’s, when he was a regular visitor to our shores, and then with the next generation of grandmasters and pioneers, as well as his son own Grandmaster Choi Jung Hwa.

Today thousands of instructors carry on the legacy of those original pioneers in all varieties of Taekwondo, whether as a sport or martial art, or a combination of both.

Visit the General Choi Hong Hi seminars page to view some of those seminars, as they are archival in nature, sound and picture quality may vary, we hope you will enjoy them.

Subscribe to our YouTube page to see more seminar clips as we launch them, along with lots of other great items.

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Taekwon-Do History

More about General Choi Hong Hi

 


 

 

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