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What has changed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics? Why has Para Taekwondo become the focus?
With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics coming up, a new highlight has emerged on the world sports stage - Para Taekwondo. This martial arts sport designed specifically for athletes with disabilities began with the establishment of the Para Taekwondo Committee in 2006. After years of promotion and development, it finally came to life at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. For many people with disabilities, this is not just a competition, but also a stage to demonstrate their perseverance and courage.
Historical Background of Para Taekwondo
The origins of Para Taekwondo can be traced back to 2006, when the World Taekwondo (WT) decided to set up a special subcommittee to promote and develop Taekwondo for athletes with disabilities. Early focus was placed on competitions for athletes with physical impairments, known as Kyorugi, with the first Para Taekwondo Championships held in Baku, Azerbaijan in 2009.
However, although the initial application for the 2016 Rio Olympics failed, after many meetings and discussions, Para Taekwondo was finally confirmed to compete in the Tokyo Paralympics in 2017.
Para Taekwondo Competition Structure
Para Taekwondo is divided into two main competitions: Kyorugi (competition) and Poomsae (form). The rules of Kyorugi competitions have been changed, such as head-attack techniques are banned and punch scoring is prohibited to reduce the risk of injury to athletes with disabilities.
Kyorugi Competition
Para Taekwondo Kyorugi's competition formats include single elimination, round-robin, etc. The competition time consists of three two-minute rounds. After the third round, if the scores are the same, a golden score round will be held.
Poomsae Competition
Poomsae focuses on the contestants' technique and performance. Contestants perform a designated kata within 20 to 120 seconds and are scored based on their technique and performance, with a full score of 10.
In Poomsae competitions, competitors are scored in two categories: technique and performance, with additional points awarded based on the difficulty of the kata performed.
Para Taekwondo's Management Body
WT, as the management body of Para Taekwondo, has formulated relevant rules and arrangements. Since becoming a full member of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) in 2015, WT has been committed to increasing the international visibility and participation of the sport.
Future Outlook
As the sports world continues to pay more attention to athletes with disabilities, the future of Para Taekwondo is undoubtedly promising. Athletes from all countries fought hard in the arena, demonstrated the spirit of surpassing themselves and showed the true power of sports.
The courage and perseverance of the athletes are the greatest inspiration to everyone, making people rethink what the true sports spirit is.
How will the 2020 Tokyo Olympics change the landscape of disability sports and make Para Taekwondo the focus of global attention? Will it inspire more people's courage and perseverance to get out of their homes and participate in this exciting event? From the movement of human hearts?
