IOC president says taekwondo has 'bright future'

IOC President Thomas Bach, center, meets World Taekwondo President Choue Chung-won at the taekwondo venue during the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Saturday (local time). Courtesy of World Taekwondo

Courtesy of World Taekwondo

By Jung Min-ho

IOC President Thomas Bach has praised the progress World Taekwondo (WT) governing body has made in recent years, saying “taekwondo has a bright future.”

According to the federation Saturday, Bach visited the taekwondo venue at the Buenos Aires Youth Olympic Games to greet President Choue Chung-won and encourage young athletes.

“With these young athletes, taekwondo certainly has a bright future,” Bach said. “It is amazing how fast it is developing, especially with the new judging system. We can see why it is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.”

Along with IOC Sports Director Kit McConnell and WT Secretary General Hoss Rafaty, the two watched the semifinals and finals.

“It was an honor to welcome IOC President Bach to our taekwondo venue this evening,” Choue said. “Our young athletes put on an exciting show and showcased their abilities.”

“The Youth Olympic Games is a very important event for our young athletes. Not only does it allow them to compete on a world stage but it brings them together from countries all around the world and teaches them the Olympic values.”

He noted that young talent was the future of taekwondo and the Olympics.

A total of 100 taekwondo athletes from 58 countries competed in 10 weight classes. As part of efforts to promote gender equality, WT secured a 50:50 ratio of men and women. It also ensured an equal number of male and female referees.

Buenos Aires 2018 has produced several enthralling matches. Medals were awarded to athletes from 24 countries.