On the 19th and 20th of July 2025, the World Championships took place in Glasgow, Scotland. There were competitors from all over the world, including from Argentina, Australia, USA and Europe. Events took place in different disciplines – patterns, sparring and team events. The weekend kicked off with the weigh-in on the Friday, where competitors and coaches got to meet and socialise with each other. The teams checked into their hotels and refuelled with a meal out after the weigh-in, as some competitors followed strict diets and training regimes in order to make sure they were in the optimal weight category for the competition.
On Saturday, the tournament kicked off with a breathtaking opening ceremony. As we were in Glasgow, the hosting Scottish team entered with a band and bagpipe players. It really was spectacular and emotional. I competed in sparring that day, winning gold and retaining my World Title. I came across competitors from the USA, Netherlands, Switzerland and Scotland during this event. There was a fantastic atmosphere in the arena and I was very proud to receive the gold medal in this event, with the help of my instructor and coach.
We also had our assistant instructor Ivy win gold in the ‘musical patterns’ competition. This event involves creating your own routine to music and there are some stunning showcases. This takes a lot of planning and skill. Congratulations Ivy!
Then on Sunday, there were the patterns and the team events. On this occasion, I did not medal in the individual patterns event. At the end of the day, there was the spectacular team event, where the top fighters from each country took the floor and battled against each other. I fought as the middle weight in the England Ladies’ team and we took silver in the event, facing up to Wales, then Argentina and then Scotland in the final. After the tournament, there was a big party at the arena and all of the competitors were able to relax and celebrate their successes!
This tournament happens once every 2 or 3 years and is an incredible opportunity to see some of Taekwondo’s best competitors. This was the 5th World Championship I have competed in and I am proud to have taken the title for my weight category in 2018, 2023 and 2025. I would encourage you to spectate when the next one comes around.
Our next major event is the British Championships on Sunday 30th November 2025. This competition is open to all students who are yellow tag or above. You can enter into patterns, sparring and team events. Or if you prefer, you can buy a ticket on the door and spectate. If you are interested in entering this competition, or in spectating, please speak to me at class. This event is extra special this year because my instructor, World Master Patrick Carter, will be awarded his 8th degree black belt. This is a tremendous achievement and those of you that know him will understand the level of dedication and perseverance it takes to get there. I hope that I can pass on his standard of excellence to this club.