2011 Victoria Hapkido Demonstration Competition

Last weekend I had the pleasure of attending an event at the Melbourne Hapkido Academy, one of the Hapkido International Associations Dojang members in Victoria. (HIA www.hapkido.co )

Having recently opened my new Dojang in Canberra I was travelling without a team, and was looking forward to being a Judge for the first time and being able to focus on watching the students from all the Association’s Dojang. Upon entering the Dojang, I knew it was going to be a great event straight away. Everything was organised and ready to go, and there were many smiling facing (hiding nerves and anticipation for the day.)

Once everyone had arrived, the students lined-up and ready, Grand Master Kim, Koomon Walters, Master Millwood & Master Uebergang entered the Dojang and opening the event. After 5 years of attending these events as a competitor it was an interesting change of perspective – not to mention a little less nervous than being in front of the Masters.

Overall the competition was strong amongst the students, and my impression of everyone was that they had invested a lot of time and energy into their practiced pieces. However the standouts for me, as the trophies showed, were Blake McLeod & Bradley Walker from the Ashmore Gym! Full credit goes to the Steve’s Hapkido Academy Team for their win, but Blake & Bradley are two young buys not yet men – on their way to black belt – and their efforts shone through.

Everyone at the event was recognised for their efforts and judging by the quality of students at the event, and the brilliant organisation, everyone should be congratulated for their efforts.As with all HIA events, the full day’s competition was concluded with a relaxed feast at a local restaurant where all the instructors, judges & students enjoyed dinner and caught up.

There is a real sense of community with the HIA, and every year the events get better, there are more students involved and the level of competition grows more intense. Next year is going to be a great event, and learning that in 2013 I will get to host the competition in the ACT – well, I’ve got 2 years to prepare (and I feel it’s not enough! Just like the Olympics I suppose.).

I wait with abaited breath for the Black Belt seminar later this year at the HIA HeadQuarters on the Gold Coast.

By: Tom Adam

SaBomNim & Gym Owner

ACT Self Defence – Hapkido Canberra

www.martialartscanberra.com

Clubs in Attendance Include:

Steve’s Hapkido Academy

www.steveshapkido.com.au

Master Kim’s Hapkido – Ashmore Gold Coast

www.hapkidoworld.com

Event Hosted by:

Melbourne Hapkido Academy

www.martialartsmebourne.com.au