The Spirit of Harmony Poomsae Open 2026 brought together athletes of all ages and experience levels at Strive Taekwondo Club in Ħamrun on Saturday, 31 October, for a day of learning, competition and shared appreciation of poomsae.
The competition welcomed athletes from Maltese clubs Strive and Iron Taekwondo League.
Organised by Mauro Busuttil and Strive Taekwondo Club under the auspices of the Malta Taekwondo Association, the event returned for its second edition following its inaugural competition last year. Combining a technical seminar with individual competition and a pairs showcase, it provided a welcoming platform for the continued development of Maltese poomsae.
The programme opened with a seminar led by Jerome Vassallo (Strive), Jovo Mirkovic (ITL) and Aratina Chamaleli (Strive). Participants had the opportunity to learn from the three coaches before taking to the competition floor, bringing training and performance together within the same event.
Following the seminar, the individual poomsae competition welcomed participants ranging from children as young as five to athletes competing at senior advanced level. This broad participation reflected the event’s inclusive approach, giving developing athletes valuable experience while offering more experienced practitioners an opportunity to demonstrate their skills.
Vassallo, Mirkovic and Chamaleli subsequently served as competition judges, joined by fifth-dan practitioner Romano Biondi. Malta Taekwondo Association President Anna Vassallo and administrator Michelle Chircop were also in attendance.
After the individual performances, athletes paired up for a pairs poomsae showcase, adding an emphasis on coordination and teamwork to the day’s programme. The judges later presented medals and certificates, recognising the athletes’ participation and achievements.
The event offered a positive contribution to the local poomsae scene, creating space for athletes to learn, perform and connect. Its return for a second year provides a foundation on which to build further opportunities for the discipline in Malta.
Credit goes to Mauro Busuttil, Strive Taekwondo Club, the seminar coaches, judges and everyone who contributed to the event.
Attention now turns to Grandmaster Ryu’s technical seminar on 6 November, offering another opportunity to continue learning and developing within Maltese taekwondo.
