Titahi Bay Han Lee Taekwondo Club, located in Porirua, New Zealand, was established in 2008 by Paleti Murphy after recognising the lack of a Taekwondo club in the area. With the support of Principal Dairne Kaimoana, the club secured the venue of Titahi Bay Intermediate School Hall. The founding members of the club were Sarah Murphy-Simmons, Kieran Murphy-Simmons, Newton Sythong, Olivia Sythong, Sarah McMillan, and Jasmine McMillan. In 2016, the club joined the Han Lee Taekwondo organisation and was renamed Titahi Bay Han Lee Taekwondo Club.
Taekwondo offers various benefits, both physically and mentally. It is a physical activity that enhances stamina, strength, and overall well-being. The training also includes practical self-defence techniques. The objective of training is to strengthen both the mind and body, thereby enhancing personal character.
The club provides opportunities to participate in regular tournaments at national and international levels, allowing members to test their skills against individuals from different clubs and styles. The club promotes a friendly and comfortable atmosphere for training.
Taekwondo, also known as Tae Kwon Do, is a martial art form that originated in Korea. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, it is recognised as one of the oldest forms of martial arts in the world. The name “Tae Kwon Do” was chosen to describe the art, with "Tae” representing foot, "Kwon” representing hand, and “Do” representing art. Taekwondo gained acceptance as an Olympic sport in 1988 when it appeared as a demonstration event in the Seoul Olympic Games.
Since the Sydney Olympics in 2000, it has been a full medal sport competition. The combination of Taekwondo as both an art and a recognised sport provides a balanced approach to encourage a disciplined way of life.
Titahi Bay Han Lee Taekwondo Club offers programmes for participants of all ages. The club welcomes individuals from different age groups in each class. The programme covers various aspects of Taekwondo, including fitness, basic exercises to develop hand and kicking skills, sparring to practise striking and blocking techniques in a controlled environment, poomsae (individuals, pairs, and group exercises), and unarmed combat/self-defence techniques for different situations. Students who show a willingness to achieve will have the opportunity to progress to their next grade through gradings held two or three times a year by experienced examiners.
For further details and inquiries, individuals can contact the Senior Club Instructor, Paleti Murphy, via email or phone.
In summary, Titahi Bay Han Lee Taekwondo Club in Porirua is a well-established sports club that offers Taekwondo training for individuals of all ages. With a focus on enhancing physical fitness, self-defence skills, and personal character, the club provides a friendly and supportive environment for members to develop their skills and participate in tournaments at various levels.