Smart/Phl jins vying in World University tilt

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines’ quest for more international taekwondo honors continues with the participation of the SMART team in the 2012 World University Taekwondo Championships on May 25-30 in Pocheon, Korea.

The event will showcase the best university athletes in the world.  It serves as a timely exposure and stepping stone for our jins who are preparing for the World Cup Championships slated in November this year in Santa Cruz, Aruba.

The Philippines’ Samuel Thomas Morrison captured a silver medal in this competition last year in Shenzen, China.  Veteran internationalist Japoy Lizardo is also one of the regular contributors to the country’s medal production in prestigious world events.

The SMART squad to Korea will be composed of male and female kyorugi (sparring) and poomsae (forms) athletes.  They are:

Anna Dominique Coseteng is head of the delegation with Victor Emmanuel Veneracion as team leader.  Roberto Cruz and Dindo Simpao are the coaches while Jesus Morales III is the international referee.

The team is supported by MVP Sports Foundation/SMART Communications, Inc., Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) and Philippine Sports Commission.

Kyorugi (male) – Ralph Erick Bunda, fin; Justin Benedict Medina, fly; Paul Romero, bantam; Samuel Thomas Morrison, feather; Ron Servito, light; Christian Al dela Cruz, welter; and Kristopher Robert Uy, middle.

Kyorugi (female) – Mary Anjelay Pelaez, fin; Ma. Isabella Erika Mora, fly; Karla Jane Alava, bantam; Jade Zafra, feather; Jane Rafaelle Narra, welter; and Kristie Elaine Alora, middle.

Poomsae – Vidal Marvin Gabriel, Shaneen Ched Sia, Patricia Mae Sembrano and Leonarda Nicole Landrito.