The Taekwondo World Games Korea 2023 are just around the corner, and the Australian team is in full preparation to compete in this exciting international event that will take place in South Korea.
The ITF sports team interviewed some members of the team in the run-up to the tournament,
Zdybel Phillip – Competitor
▪️ How was the preparation for World Games Korea 2023?
“Preparation for the WG, honestly was not going to partake having decided to stop competition TKD after completing in the Netherlands in 2022 at 57 years of age, Then on 7th November 2022 I dropped dead for 28 minutes from a Sudden Cardiac Arrest caused by an Aneurysm on the artery wall whilst playing competitive Basketball.
Recovery involved a lot of fitness work. In the initial stages a lot of walking, slowly increasing to full runs. On the same, a process of gradual return to TKD and at this stage back into full swing. Although I do forget a lot, memory recall is returning a lot quicker than most would if it happened to them and me being me ignoring medical recommendations I pushed harder, I put this down to my years of TKD/Fitness training, giving me a strong mindset.
In March, this year I decided to enter a non TKD event run by ISKA, their Victorian challenge.. Not feeling confident or at all up to it, as I was still recovering and had just been giving the, all clear from medical professionals to resume normal activities. Competing against opponents 10 to 20 years younger than myself and after 3 bouts in a similar version of TKD sparring, I placed 1st and manage the gold and honestly, I was not trying, I was just happy to be able to take part and be alive. It was from here I decide to return to competition and finish 2023 of strong. Since then, to gain valuable ring time I have competed in WT events, 3rd Global Championships ITF and WT and more ISKA events against opponents much younger than myself and up to 29 years younger, all with results. When ITF Sports announced there would be a over 46 division Veterans it was game on. Extensive hardcore training commenced.”
▪️ In what categories does he compete and with what expectation does he reach the competition?
“I will be competing Veterans Sparring Hypo weight, 5th Degree Patterns and of course Power Breaking.”
▪️ What countries do you see as favorites in the championship?
“Well as my Favorite obviously Australia, but on medal tally’s Argentina to lead with England and USA in either 2nd or 3rd.”
▪️ Do you have some kind of special preparation before competition day?
“No special preparation, My main, focus is just to relax and enjoy the moment, I’m happy that I can still step onto the matts and represent Australia. I only be out there looking in the mirror, just dancing with myself, with nothing to prove and nothing to lose.”
Muleta Michael – Umpire
▪️ With what expectation comes World Games 2023?
“I look forward to a very exciting and significant event with participants of all levels and ages congregating in the birthplace of Taekwon-Do and the ITF, being Seoul, Korea. We also look forward to being honoured with the presence of ITF President Choi Jung Hwa. It will be the 4th time in Korea for me, as either an instructor or umpire, and I always enjoy the culture and people.”
▪️ What motivates you to be present as an Umpire in International Competitions?
“Having been an international competitor and national coach at several ITF World Championships previously, transitioning to umpiring and then event organizing was a natural progression. I thought it would be a great way to stay involved at the elite level of competition. I began umpiring and organizing major domestic events in 1992, and first Umpired at ITF World Championships in 2001. I was appointed to the Tournament Committee in 2002, whilst in Argentina and have been involved in 12 ITF World Championships, organizing the 2006 ITF World Championships in Australia. In 2007, I was awarded Outstanding Umpire Award at the ITF World Championships in Birmingham, England.”
▪️ Any special messages to competitors who will be present in Korea?
“I wish all competitors from all countries the best of luck, enjoyment and great performance in these championships, and look forward to seeing and meeting you all.”