Taekwondo Talent Transfer Deadline Extended

by James Skitt - 26.11.09

With the London 2012 Olympics fast approaching, Sport Taekwondo UK and the UK Talent Team (a collaboration between UK Sport and the English Institute of Sport [EIS]), recently stepped up their medal hunt with the launch of a groundbreaking initiative, Talent2012: Fighting Chance, which endeavors to mould an Olympic taekwondo gold medalist from the cream of British martial arts talent.

The campaign has attracted a great deal of interest and enthusiasm with some high achieving combat athletes from various martial arts backgrounds already signing up. Now, due to the volume of high quality applications showing no signs of slowing down, the deadline has been extended, with the online sign up form remaining accessible until 14th December at www.uksport.gov.uk/talent

Sport Taekwondo UK and the UK Talent Team are confident that there are still combat athletes out there not currently involved in taekwondo’s Olympic discipline who are capable of challenging for positions in the national team. Recent rule changes that increase points scored for kicks to the head have opened up an exciting opportunity for transfer into the sport from other kicking based martial arts.

This innovative project is aiming to embrace the different styles of athletes from different martial arts who have the drive, commitment and determination to transfer their talent to capitalise on this Olympic opportunity.

Former multi World, European and British Karate Champion, Wayne Otto OBE, added his support. “Having won every major (World and National) title out there, I would have given everything to have been offered the chance to represent my country on the Olympic stage. I would urge everyone that has the ability to achieve a goal of this magnitude to apply.”

Paul Mullan, Senior Talent Identification Scientist at the EIS, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for high level combat athletes to showcase their talent and ability to transfer between combat disciplines. Never before has this approach to identifying  talent been employed within Olympic martial arts in the UK. Any combat athlete who thinks they have what it takes and is up for the challenge of an intense fast-track training programme should sign up.”

UK Sport Head of Athlete Development, Chelsea Warr, said: “UK Sport is committed to achieving top four in the Olympic medal table in 2012 and we are supporting the delivery of this initiative because we have seen the evidence and are convinced that we can fill current talent gaps within the sport, and create genuine medal opportunities in London.”

The opportunity to trial for a spot remains open until 14th December 2009. If you have what it takes don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity. Click here to sign up online.

Have you got what it takes?
Aged 16+
Male and female
All weight categories
Excellent skill level
Lightning reactions and decision making
Current success at national level or above in a kicking based martial art
Desire and determination for success
Eligible for UK passport

Photography © Getty Images