The 18th Gold Coast Open Taekwondo Championships will return to Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium for a major weekend of competition on May 2 and 3, bringing together athletes of all ages and skill levels.
This year’s event introduces a new format, separating disciplines across two days to create a more streamlined and engaging experience. Saturday will feature all Kyorugi (sparring) matches for competitors ranging from young beginners to masters, while Sunday will focus on Poomsae (patterns), speed kicking and board breaking events.
Organisers say the updated structure allows for a dedicated “stand-alone” Poomsae competition, delivered in a traditional Hanmadang festival style to encourage broader participation. A new Novice Poomsae division has also been introduced, giving less experienced athletes a fair opportunity to compete without facing elite competitors.
The championships will be preceded by the Australian Taekwondo World Championship Poomsae Selection Event on Friday, May 1, turning the three days into a celebration of martial arts on the Gold Coast.
Held at the Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium, the event is expected to attract strong local and interstate interest, and with competitors already secured, it’s the perfect opportunity to watch high-level bouts unfold while supporting and celebrating the Gold Coast’s local martial arts community.
Image source: facebook.com/groups/goldcoastopen/