38 Philippine jins vie in Asian junior/cadet meet

MANILA, Philippines — Thirty-eight Philippine taekwondo (kyorugi/poomsae) athletes target international honors when they compete in the Asian Junior and Cadet Poomsae Championships in Amman, Jordan on July 15-25.

The kyorugi (free sparring) fighters composed of 13 males and 11 females and poomsae (forms) entries numbering six males and eight females will carry the colors of PLDT Home Ultera and MVP Sports Foundation in the prestigious event.

Dindo Simpao heads the team, with the other officials being Christian Al dela Cruz, Paul Romero and Devy John Singson (kyorugi coaches), Rani Ann Ortega, Edrick Jhaney Galing (poomsae coaches), Stephen Fernandez (council member, World Taekwondo Asia) and Michael Montinola (trainer).

The Filipinos, considered among the top contenders in the tournament, will face champions from 35 countries such as Korea, Iran, China, Chinese Taipei, Japan and Thailand.

The phl participation is supported by Smart Communication Inc., PLDT, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.