The Greater Accra Region triumphed at the 14th Korean Ambassador’s Taekwondo Championships, held last Saturday at the Ga Mashie Hall of the Trust Sports Emporium in Accra. Under the guidance of Coach Fayise Selorm, the region accumulated 185 points, securing nine gold, eight silver, and 12 bronze medals to claim first place. The Volta Region followed with 72 points, Ashanti Region earned 68 points for third place, and Upper East Region garnered 52 points, finishing fourth. The Northern Region placed fifth with 48 points, while other participating regions included Eastern, Bono, Upper West, Western, and Central.

Mr. Lartey Otu, President of the Ghana Taekwondo Federation, emphasized that the championship serves to prepare young athletes for the 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar, Senegal. He congratulated all participants and winners, encouraging them to continue their training to achieve their dreams. He also acknowledged former top athletes and coaches, such as the late Shaibu Yakubu and Da Rocha, who represented Ghana in international events like the Olympic Games. Mr. Otu urged the regions to unite and form a strong Taekwondo fraternity and was presented with a citation by the Ghana Para Taekwondo.

The Republic of Korea Ambassador, HE K.S. Park, noted the growing popularity of Taekwondo in Ghana, highlighting its benefits for physical strength, development, and relationship-building. He pledged support for Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympics and looked forward to the next edition of the Korean Ambassador’s Championship.

The inter-regional championships, organized by the Ghana Taekwondo Federation (GTF) and sponsored by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, featured young athletes aged 13 to 17 competing in Kyorugi and Poomsae. The competition included five weight categories for each gender in juniors and cadets Kyorugi, with athletes vying for medals, selection, and the overall best accolade.

James Sedoh was named the best male junior player, Zitta Tornyevah the best female junior, Jayden Nettey the best male junior Poomsae, and Setorme Tornyeva the best female junior. Other winners received hampers, medals, and certificates. Referees and officials, who attended a seminar at the Korea Sports Complex before the competition, were also commended for their performance.

The ‘Mission to Senegal 2026 Junior Olympics’ was deemed a great success, providing significant exposure for up-and-coming athletes and referees.