New Entrants to Mombasa Open Tong IL-Moo Do Championship

By Harrison Kivisu

Email, thecoastnewspsper@mail.cim

Preparation for the 12th Edition of Mombasa Open Tong Il-Moo Do International Martial Arts Championship is in top gear ahead of its kick-off  on August 23-25, 2024 at the iconic Aga Khan Multipurpose Hall in Mombasa County.

Kenya Tong IL Moo Do Federation president, Master Clarence Mwakio said the competition has attracted new entrants from Germany, Cyprus, Sao Tome and Principe, and Finland who are set to spice up the battle for medals.

The federation says over 45 countries are expected to grace this year’s competition billed as the most anticipated championship in a decade following the entrance of new participants.

“This year we have new entrants, and we are delighted to announce that Germany has announced to participate, in Africa we have São Tomé and Príncipe. This shows you how the sort has grown and how it’s attracting interests globally,” he said.

Speaking at the federation headquarters in Mombasa on Friday, August 2, 2024, the president appealed to the government to expedite the release of funds for sponsoring the global event.

“We are hopeful that before the tournament begins, the government through the Ministry of Sports will come on board through funding the event and taking care of the national team’s needs including allowances.”

The competition will feature fierce battles in sparring, forms, and special techniques, showcasing the highest level of martial arts talent from around the world.

The Kenya men’s and women’s team popularly known as Jasiri are expected to put everything at their disposal to defend individual and overall team titles it claimed last year.

Foreign teams are expected to start arriving from August 15, 2024

The defending champions will congregate in Mombasa in a week’s time in preparation for the competition after a 11 year reign.

The Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championship stands as the first martial arts program of its kind in Africa.

The championship promises to be a thrilling spectacle that will captivate audiences with its dynamic displays of athleticism and martial prowess.

“So far the federation has hosted 11 successful editions all held in Mombasa, Kenya. And we are hopeful that this year, we will host a very successful competition. We ask Kenyans to turn in large numbers and celebrate their team.”

Competitors, aged eight years, both boys and girls will participate.

For the adults, it will include men and women of up to 55 years who will contest as individuals and teams in various categories during the three-day tournament. 

“This event brings together guests from across the globe and promotes sports tourism that markets our country, especially to the visiting foreign participants from various continents.”

The Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championship is accredited as a World Championship status event according to the World Tong-IL Moo-Do Federation events classification and rating. 

He added: ”Hosting an international martial arts tournament puts the host country in the international spotlight, generating media coverage and increasing global visibility. This helps promote the country’s culture, tourism, and sports, leading to enhanced international recognition and reputation.”

He said that local players have benefited immensely financially from the Presidential Cash Awards Scheme for having won numerous medals in different global championships including Mombasa Open.

“The Cash awards have enabled many young players to pay tuition fees for their Primary, Secondary, and College education. Several students in various universities are paying their school fees from the cash awards proceeds.”