Discover how the Master Class with Grand Master Néstor Galarraga in Nicaragua not only improved technique and tactics in Taekwon-Do ITF but also delved into crucial aspects of refereeing, offering a unique experience of growth and refinement in this discipline.
The Nicaraguan Integral Taekwon-Do Training Association (ANITF) had the honour of hosting Grand Master Néstor Galarraga in a Master Class held on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th February 2024 in Nicaragua. The event, focused on technical and tactical improvement, offered participants the unique opportunity to delve into various fundamental aspects of Taekwon-Do ITF.
The idea of organizing the Master Class arose from the need to strengthen the presence of Taekwon-Do ITF in Nicaragua. Sabon Romina Galarraga, contacted by one of the local organizers, facilitated the connection with GM Galarraga. For the organizers, having the support and advice of GM Galarraga is essential to consolidate their organization.
The preparation and logistics behind the Master Class involved facing several challenges, as it was the first time that the GM visited Nicaragua. For this reason, they decided that only Nicaraguans would participate, to make the most of his visit and knowledge.
The main objectives of this event were to take advantage of GM Galarraga’s experience and knowledge to update and strengthen Taekwon-Do in Nicaragua. They also sought to consolidate their organization as a recognized entity with international support.
During the Master Class, fundamental topics such as Tuls, corrections, and application of movements were addressed, allowing participants to improve their technique and tactics in the martial art. In addition, crucial aspects of refereeing, such as evaluation in Tuls, Matsogi, and score signaling, were deepened, providing attendees with a more comprehensive understanding of competition in Taekwon-Do ITF.
The Master Class greatly benefited Taekwon-Do ITF practitioners in Nicaragua, as it allowed them to update themselves and learn about the current state of Taekwon-Do internationally, something they had not been able to do for many years.
One of the most exciting and unique aspects of this Master Class was the new knowledge that it left to the participants, giving them encouragement and a new impetus to continue on the path of Taekwon-Do.
Having the presence of Grand Master Néstor Galarraga was of utmost importance, as he provided help to improve personally and in the teaching of Taekwon-Do in Nicaragua.
The response and participation of the Taekwon-Do community in Nicaragua to this event were excellent. The expectations of the ANITF regarding the long-term impact of the Master Class are very high, trusting that they can meet them in a timely manner, as everyone is focused on improving and moving Taekwon-Do forward in Nicaragua. To strengthen Taekwon-Do ITF, the ANITF plans to attend the event to be held in Venezuela (Pan American 2024). They will also work closely with all instructors to share and strengthen the knowledge left by GM Galarraga, which will give them the strength to continue on the path of Taekwon-Do.
The Master Class with GM Néstor Galarraga not only provided participants with the opportunity to improve their technique and tactics in Taekwon-Do ITF but also offered them a deep knowledge of crucial aspects of refereeing. It was an enriching and unique experience for all present, which will surely have a lasting impact on the Taekwon-Do community in Nicaragua, providing them with a solid foundation for their growth and refinement in this discipline.
