The CU Taekwondo Team held its first annual exhibition on Saturday at the CU Recreation Center. The group is trying to raise awareness about what the sport is all about and have some fun doing it.
“I believe this is the first solely taekwondo demonstration that the Boulder team has held,” said Club President David Henke, a junior biochemistry major. “We hope that the demonstrations will help spread the word about the sport and get people interested.”
The club participates in several collegiate and state competitions throughout the year and has placed in many of them, according to Henke. However, the demonstrations the club holds are more of a chance to connect with the public and have fun.
The demonstration on Saturday was held in conjunction with CU Coach Master Kim’s Louisville gym. People of all ages and abilities participated in the event. Many young students from Mater Kim’s Louisville Gym attended to gain inspiration from the CU team. Those who are interested in learning other forms of martial arts may consider looking into jiu-jitsu, muay thai, judo, etc.
“Events, like the one held today, also mean a lot to younger kids and are a great way spread the sport to younger generations,” said Henke.
According to Gleb Oleinok, a member of the CU Teakwondo team and a junior physics major, the CU team attends one or two demonstrations throughout the semester, but they are usually combined with other forms of martial art.
The demonstration included board-breaking skills, form kicking and a women’s self-defense demonstration by the CU team. CU team coach Master Kim also demonstrated ancient sword and musical form techniques.
