NEW IRELAND GOVERNMENT STEPS UP MARTIAL ARTS DEVELOPMENT
BY RICKY ISRAEL
THE New Ireland Provincial Government is increasing its support for martial arts development in the province after three senior athletes and instructors returned from training and competitions in Australia.
Governor Byron Chan says the government provided about K120,000 to support Steven Tommy, Lindorn Chan and Brandon Wengip during their overseas training.
The athletes spent several weeks in Australia undertaking advanced training, instructor grading and competitions.
Tommy and Wengip competed in two Taekwondo tournaments in Brisbane and South Australia, winning silver medals.
Tommy also achieved a Third Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo and is now recognised as a senior master instructor. He also holds senior qualifications in Karate.
Lindorn Chan was unable to compete because of a knee injury but successfully completed instructor grading in different Karate styles. He now holds a Third Dan in Zenduru Karate, a Second Dan in Taekwondo, and qualifications in Shotokan Karate.
Wengip, who is a Red Belt with three stripes, also completed grading in both Taekwondo and Karate and gained valuable competition experience in Australia.
Governor Chan says the program is aimed at rebuilding martial arts in New Ireland, upgrading senior instructors to internationally recognised levels and creating more opportunities for young athletes.
He says martial arts can also help young people develop discipline, confidence and good character.
The New Ireland Provincial Administration Dennis Kosam says martial arts is one of the sports where the province has performed strongly at national and international competitions.
The province currently has about 15 martial arts clubs and more than 200 fighters, including senior and developing athletes.
The three athletes thanked the provincial government for the support, saying the experience gained in Australia will be shared with younger fighters and instructors in New Ireland.
The provincial government is now planning further training and competitions, including a provincial martial arts tournament.
It also plans to support athletes preparing for Taekwondo Olympic trials, as well as competitions and training opportunities in Turkey and Fiji.
Governor Chan says the government wants to continue creating pathways for New Ireland athletes to gain international experience and eventually represent Papua New Guinea at major competitions.
