Torquay Taekwondo team strikes gold at state titles return

A TAEKWONDO team based out of Torquay has returned to in-person, contact competition for the first time in two years after a COVID-induced hiatus with successful results to say the least.

The team from Torquay’s Endurance Taekwondo was well-prepared for the Taekwondo State Titles and Selections, which were held at the Darebin Community Sports Centre on July 10.

“I couldn’t have been happier with the efforts of my students,” said Alistair Lawson, head instructor at Endurance Martial Arts.

“Their training ethics leading up to the competition were amazing and their improvements were great to see. They were all smiling and happy with their own performances too, which was amazing.”

Endurance Taekwondo’s seven students that competed at the event successfully ended the day with six gold medals and one bronze.

As a result, three competitors earned themselves state titles and five individuals will now participate at the Australian National Titles in October this year.

Portarlington mum of four Jessica Barrios was one of the standout competitors having returned to training on just three weeks’ notice

However, Barrios managed to defeat her opponent in what was a one-sided affair.

“It was great to step on the mats again after a long time off due to injury and family commitments and a fantastic outcome becoming Victorian Champion,” she said.

Described as a “challenging but rewarding day for the Endurance sparring team”, the venue kept in place a strong COVIDSafe policy to ensure maximum numbers were not exceeded.