Richards Bay stingers excel at international event

RICHARDS Bay Stingers Taekwondo are on a winning streak after putting up a good fight, securing numerous podium finishes at the first international Taekwondo event in the country, hosted by Master Vladimir Grachev.

Taekwondo practitioners from around the world descended on KwaDukuza to showcase their skills and to battle and sift out the best.

Master Grachev holds a 7th Degree in Taekwondo and Hapkido and the week long event was packed with seminars, umpire certifications, gradings and extra training with the senior masters.

The team from Richards Bay was represented by 30 members and returned victorious with numerous medals.

‘With the support of our local community and Richards Bay Minerals who assisted with part of our costs, we were able to attend this event and excel,’ said Chief Instructor Bruce Madura.

‘For many of the Richards Bay Stingers, the journey began after returning from Argentina with two world champions.

‘We achieved great success and as a result, members have been motivated and increased their training efforts tremendously.

‘I started Taekwondo in 2003 when I was taking my son to classes and decided instead of sitting and waiting for him

I would train, as watching the art really impressed me.

‘I was given the club when I was 2nd Degree in 2009 and we grew from 10 students to a strong group of 70.

‘As a club, we have achieved over the years, but there is no greater feeling than the achievements of my students.

‘Sport and martial art is a place to grow future leaders. Taekwondo training includes not only physical efforts but also principles, moral culture and our tenets which are courtesy and respect, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

‘I believe that constant modelling of our behaviour around this is the one way we can change our community.’

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