Record medal haul for MTF team in British Open

Twenty-one members of the Malta Taekwondo Federation (MTF) earlier this month took part in the 13th British Taekwondo International Open, staged at the K3 Sports Arena in Crawley, UK.

Featuring over 500 participants, the British Open comprised competitions in two main disciplines – Olympic Kyorugi (sparring) and Poomsae (Form).

The categories varied in weight, level and age-groups and athletes were matched accordingly.

All the Maltese athletes had trained hard for several months in preparation for this event and their efforts were duly rewarded as they won a record medal haul – three gold, four silver and five bronze.

Malta’s successful athletes in Poomsae were: Joel Genius and Maria Minuti – gold; Chris Vella and Luanne Grima – silver; Megan M. Melillo – bronze. Joseph Azzopardi was the coach of the Poomsae team.

In sparring, the MTF members who gained a podium place were: Mauro Busuttil – goal; Chloe Vassallo and Lynsey Fenech – silver; Melillo, Sean De Marco, Sharelle Zammit and Kyle Vassallo – bronze. Brian Saliba was in charge of Malta’s sparring competitors.

The MTF officials who led the Maltese contingent during the British Open were Azzopardi, Saliba and Joanne Zammit.

For more information on taekwondo or the Malta Taekwondo Federation events one may call on 9942-4983.