Galeb Summer Camp 2025: Three Decades Forging Taekwondo Legends By Carlos Hernandez August 11, 2025 Vrnjačka Banja, Serbia. In the green heart of Serbia, where the forests seem to embrace every step and the air smells of summer, the Galeb Summer Camp celebrated its 30th anniversary with an energy felt not only on the tatamis but throughout every corner of the city. From July 31 to August 8, 2025, more than 600 competitors, along with 94 coaches, officials, and staff members from 40 countries, gathered to experience something far beyond sport: it was family, tradition, and passion. A Camp with an Olympic Spirit From dawn, the halls of Hotel Zepter filled with athletes full of dreams, dressed in their practice gear and ready to perform at their best. The murmur of conversations in multiple languages blended with the sharp sounds of kicks being practiced in the training rooms. There, cadets, juniors, and seniors followed a rigorous schedule of two daily training sessions designed to refine technique and strengthen the mind. It was reported that athletes or representatives from Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Mexico, Norway, Oman, Poland, Romania, Scotland, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Syrian Arab Republic, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, AIN, and Venezuela attended the event. On August 5, one of the most intense moments took place: the Test Match, where athletes put their skills to the test against some of the best in the world. Among them, Olympic medalists Adriana Cerezo (ESP) (silver in Tokyo 2020) and Viviana Marton (HUN) (gold in Paris 2024) stood out, as well as world champions like Luana Marton (HUN) and Bozadic. From the Americas, international multi-medalist Andrea Ramírez (Colombia) also made a notable appearance. The Three-Decade Gala As night fell, the lights in the main hall announced a historic moment: the 30th Anniversary Gala held on August 6. Senior athletes and honored guests relived memories spanning three decades. There were laughter, applause, long embraces, and tears—testaments to how this camp has transcended sport to become an international brotherhood. “WE HAD WEEKS OF ACTION, TRAINING, AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCOVER NEW TALENTS. OUR COACHES GAVE THEIR BEST, AND THE ATHLETES WERE INSPIRED EVERY DAY TO IMPROVE.” — Dragan Jovic, taekwondo legend and the soul of the camp, who to this day continues with consecutive extra training days, now in Belgrade. Training to the Limit On the mat, the demand was at its highest. Blocks, combinations of kicks to the body and head, and combat simulations were all part of the routine. “The coaches we invite always give their best effort in teaching innovative techniques,” Jovic explained. “WE WANTED TO GUIDE THE COMPETITORS THROUGH DIFFERENT SITUATIONS SO THEY WOULD LEARN TO THINK LIKE CHAMPIONS.” The sessions were complemented with private training for those who needed extra attention. The technical team was made up of world-class figures: Dragan Jovic, Seyed Khalifeh Nemat, Reza Imanzadeh, Uroš Todorović, Stevan Rašić, Milan Milovanović, Radomir Samadzic, Nebojša Šakić, and the renowned coaches Jesús Ramal and Suvi Mikkonen. A special mention goes to Dr. Snežana Banković, whose work and empathy were recognized by the entire team: “She was compassionate with everyone who needed her help; thank you.” — Galeb Team The presence of double Olympic champion Milica Mandić was also a must, as she, together with her family, brings both warmth and inspiration to the Camp. A global taekwondo family "IN THE LAST 30 YEARS, MANY ATHLETES HAVE TRAINED HERE. WE ARE A FAMILY."—SEYED KHALIFEH NEMAT Y REZA IMANZADEH From the Americas, René Forero, an Olympic coach and president of the Colombian Taekwondo Federation, arrived, stating: 'We fully trust in the vision and energy of this event.'" Vrnjačka Banja: the perfect stage The setting was as important as the training itself. Vrnjačka Banja offered lush forests, parks, festivals, an open-air cinema, a wine fair, shops, and restaurants. The Hotel Zepter combined luxury and comfort, making athletes and families feel at home. An Impact That Crosses Borders The spirit of the Galeb Summer Camp didn't stay in Serbia. With nearly 5 million online views from the official broadcast, the experience reached Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, connecting the global taekwondo community. Key Figures 600 competitors 94 coaches and staff 40 countries represented 2 daily training sessions per category Nearly 5 million online views 3 decades of shaping champions Impactful Quotes "In the last 30 years, many athletes have trained here. We are a family." — Seyed Khalifeh Nemat and Reza Imanzadeh "Our coaches gave their best, while the athletes were inspired every day to be better." — Dragan Jovic "We fully trust in the vision and energy of this event." — René Forero "It was wonderful to reunite and feel what the taekwondo family means." — Dragan Jovic Thirty Years Later… The Galeb Summer Camp remains what it always dreamed of being: a place where champions are forged not just in combat, but also in values. In Vrnjačka Banja, taekwondo once again proved that it is more than a sport: it's a family that gathers every summer to celebrate friendship, respect, and the passion for self-improvement. GALA Editor's Note: Thanks to the Organizing Committee of the Galeb Summer Camp for recognizing our media outlet, mundotaekwondo.com, which is celebrating four years of working alongside this event. We are proud to be a part of it and wish Dragan and his incredible projects a long life. Source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/"

Galeb Summer Camp 2025: A Gala for the History Books By Carlos Hernandez August 7, 2025 On August 6, 2025, the Galeb Summer Camp celebrated its 30th anniversary with a spectacular gala that marked a historic milestone in the world of taekwondo. The event not only commemorated three decades of success but also highlighted the global influence of a camp that has been the cradle of great figures in the sport. The First Steps Toward Success The Galeb Taekwondo Club was founded in Belgrade in 1991 by visionary Dragan Jović, at a time when taekwondo was not yet widely established in Serbia. Through rigorous discipline, innovative training methods, and a long-term strategic vision, Jović transformed Galeb into one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe and the world. Over more than three decades, the club has achieved remarkable milestones: 4 Olympic medals (2 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze), 9 medals at World Championships (4 gold and 5 bronze), 23 medals at European Championships (5 gold, 8 silver, and 10 bronze), and more than 20 medals in international cadet and junior competitions. Today, Dragan Jović is internationally recognized for his ability to take a country with little taekwondo tradition to the very top of the sport, reaching Olympic glory. 30th Anniversary Gala: A Gathering of Stars With the presence of distinguished leaders, elite athletes, and international figures from the world of taekwondo, the Galeb Summer Camp 2025 gala was an event filled with glamour, prestige, and emotion. The evening began with a warm welcome to the guests, who took their seats at elegantly decorated tables and enjoyed exquisite Serbian cuisine and fine drinks. The event opened on a touching note when singer Ana Janković, from the Capital Taekwondo Club in Ottawa, Canada, performed the Serbian national anthem with an angelic voice that moved everyone present. In addition, an eight-minute video was shown, highlighting key moments in the camp’s history, featuring testimonials, interviews, and historical photographs that captured Galeb’s impact on the world of taekwondo. In his opening speech, Dragan Jović stated: “Today we celebrate three decades of sport, friendship, and unforgettable memories. We are deeply grateful to all those who have shared this passion with us over the years. It has been a long and challenging journey, but we are excited for what the next 30 years will bring. Thank you all for joining us in this historic moment!” Tribute to Taekwondo Figures The event was not only a celebration but also a space to pay tribute to those who have left an indelible mark on taekwondo. Renowned leaders and athletes, both national and international, were honored for their contributions to the sport. Dejan Burčul, President of the Serbian Taekwondo Federation, congratulated the Galeb Summer Camp for its tireless work and dedication over the years. Djordje Višacki, a member of the Serbian Olympic Committee, also addressed the audience, highlighting the club’s impact in the country. ChatGPT의 말: One of the most anticipated moments was the tribute to Mohamed Shaaban, a World Taekwondo executive, former Egyptian athlete, and Director of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Shaaban praised Jović’s tireless work and leadership in developing taekwondo in Serbia. Otro homenajeado fueIonnis Mouroutsos, Director Deportivo de la Unión Europea de Another honoree was Ionnis Mouroutsos, Sports Director of the European Taekwondo Union and member of the World Taekwondo Events Committee, who acknowledged Jović’s efforts in training champions. Olympic athletes Milica Mandić and Tijana Bogdanović, pillars of Serbia’s success in taekwondo, were also honored, expressing their gratitude for the Galeb Summer Camp’s constant support throughout their careers. From the Americas, Cito René Forero, President of the Colombian Taekwondo Federation and Olympic coach, expressed his gratitude upon receiving recognition on such a special night. “It is an honor to be part of this great family that has made this camp an international benchmark,” Forero stated, accompanied by his wife, world medalist Andrea Ramírez. The Show: Between Magic and Strength To add a touch of distinction, the gala featured amazing performances by magician Igor Trifunov and master Muhammed Kahrimanovic, known as Mr. Hammerhand, who has broken more than 70 Guinness World Records thanks to his extraordinary strength. Awards for Outstanding Coaches and Collaborators One of the most anticipated moments was the awards ceremony honoring the world’s most influential coaches. Renowned trainers such as: • Toni Tomas (Croatia) • Rosando Alonso (Spain) • Gulsah Kuscu Alonso (Turkey) • Jesús Ramal (Spain) • Suvi Mikkonen (Finland) were recognized. All of them have contributed significantly to winning Olympic medals and the development of the sport. The Galeb Summer Camp also recognized the team that has supported the event throughout the years. Special recognition was given to the contributions of: • Dr. Seyed Nemat Khalifeh • Dr. Reza Imanzadeh • Uroš Todorović • Stevan Rašić • Dr. Marija Pavlović • Monika Varga • Nebojša Šakić • Dr. Snežana Banković • Radomir Samardžić Additionally, key individuals behind the camp’s success were honored, including: • Đorđe Rašić (member of the Zepter Group) • Vojislav Alimpić (Director of Hotel Zepter) • Van Radović (President of the Municipal Assembly of Vrnjačka Banja) Olympic finalists Adriana Cerezo Iglesias (silver in Tokyo 2020) and Viviana Marton (gold in 2024) were also honored, along with Mr. Abdulah Unlubay, Director of KPNP Europe. Media outlets such as Mundo Taekwondo and Arena Fight, represented by Carlos Hernández and Katarina Stam, received awards for their support of taekwondo’s development. A Special Recognition for the European Medalists European medalists from the Galeb club, Lev Korneev and Andrea Bokan, received a warm ovation from their teammates, who celebrated their achievements with heartfelt applause. This award was presented by Serbia’s two-time Olympic medalists, Milica and Tijana. An Emotional Finale To close the evening, Dragan Jablan, the first prominent athlete from the Galeb club, delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting Dragan Jović’s journey and the significance of his achievements for Serbia, reaffirming the camp’s impact on the history of taekwondo. Galeb Summer Camp 2025 not only celebrated a 30-year legacy but also planted the seeds for many more years of success and contributions to the sport. An unforgettable event that will continue to be a cornerstone for the evolution of taekwondo worldwide. Source: https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Chuncheon, South Korea – July 7, 2025 – The city of Chuncheon is set to become the global epicenter of taekwondo by hosting the 2025 World Cup Taekwondo Team Championships, one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar organized by World Taekwondo (WT). This championship brings together the best national teams and mixed squads in a dynamic team format where collective spirit, tactical prowess, and technical excellence take center stage. Held at the Chuncheon Gangwon Sports Center, the tournament will welcome continental delegations, positioning Chuncheon as a key venue in the global development of taekwondo. The KPNP electronic system will be used. Hosting the championship in Chuncheon, a city with a deep martial arts tradition in Korea, adds symbolic value. In addition to the competition, spectators will enjoy cultural showcases, public activities, and breaking championships, reinforcing the bond between taekwondo, its community, and its roots. source:https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Africa Looks to the Future: Nigeria to Host the 2025 African Cadet, Junior & Team Taekwondo Championships Abuja, Nigeria – 22 to 24 August 2025 The heart of African taekwondo is set to beat stronger than ever this August as Nigeria hosts the2025 African Cadet, Junior & Team Taekwondo Championships—an event that promises to mark a turning point for the next generation of athletes across the continent. Scheduled from22 to 24 August 2025, the competition will take place at theIndoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Abuja, a venue ready to provide world-class facilities and an unforgettable cultural experience. This long-awaited return of a major continental championship is more than just another tournament—it is asymbol of revival and forward momentumfor youth taekwondo in Africa. It serves as a high-performance platform where cadet and junior athletes will not only gain invaluable experience but also earn ranking points on their path to theAngola 2025 African Youth Gamesand theDakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG). Abuja: A Continental Stage for Rising Stars Nigeria’s selection as host reflects both vision and ambition. With energy and commitment, the country is preparing to welcome delegations from across Africa with warmth and pride. Organisers are ensuring that every detail—from logistics and accommodation to competition venues and hospitality—is managed to the highest standard. A Gateway to High-Level Competition In addition to individual categories, the event will featuremixed-gender junior team competitions, promoting both teamwork and gender inclusivity. This format strengthens the spirit of collaboration among nations, and reflects the inclusive values of taekwondo. For many of these young athletes, this championship will be theirfirst exposure to elite-level international competition. It is here that they will learn to manage pressure, represent their countries with honour, and develop the mental discipline essential for Olympic-style events. While Dakar 2026 may be the ultimate goal, the journey begins in Abuja. This championship will act as a testing ground for emerging talent, and many of the names that shine here are expected to become future stars on the global stage. More Than Sport: A Celebration of Unity and Culture This event goes beyond medals and titles.Nigeria is determined to make it a celebrationof African youth, unity, and diversity. Cultural showcases, community engagement and a spirit of togetherness will transform Abuja into a vibrant hub of sport and cultural exchange. Registration Open Until 31 July Registration is now open, with afinal deadline of 31 July 2025. National federations are strongly encouraged to confirm their entries early to secure participation and ensure the presence of their best young athletes. Reigniting the Flame of Youth Taekwondo The 2025 African Cadet, Junior & Team Championships will befar more than a competition—it will be a collective statement of Africa’s commitment to nurturing its young talent. It also represents the first significant milestone in a new Olympic cycle that is already beginning to inspire passion across the continent. Nigeria is ready. So is Africa. The future of African taekwondo begins now—in Abuja. Carlos Hernández source:https://mundotaekwondo.com/

Taekwondo at Its Finest in South Korea During the month of July 2025, the city of Chuncheon and the high-performance center Muju Taekwondowon became the heart of the taekwondo world, hosting some of the most innovative and spectacular events organized by World Taekwondo (WT). From intense team battles to creative demonstrations and breaking competitions, the international circuit showcased a vibrant display of strength, technique, artistry, and spectacle. World Cup Team Championships: Strategy and Showmanship in Chuncheon From July 7 to 9, Chuncheon hosted a new edition of the World Taekwondo Team Championships, better known as the World Cup Team Championships. This format, which combines collective strategy and individual tactics, attracted top men’s, women’s, and mixed teams from around the globe. Teams from South Korea, China, and Uzbekistan stood out in the men’s, women’s, and mixed categories, demonstrating advanced technique and great physical strength among their athletes. “This kind of tournament strengthens team spirit and shows that taekwondo is more than just an individual sport,” commented one of the Chinese team coaches. Breaking and Demonstrations: Martial Art in Its Purest Form Right after, from July 10 to 13, Chuncheon was once again filled with energy for the World Taekwondo Demonstration & Breaking Championships. The event brought together breaking specialists and prestigious demonstration teams from Korea and other countries, who performed spectacular choreographies blending acrobatics, synchronization, and traditional technique. From precise multi-board spinning kick breaks to theatrical self-defense presentations, the tournament confirmed taekwondo’s versatility as both a martial art and a cultural vehicle. “We’re not just breaking boards—we’re breaking prejudices. This too is taekwondo,” said a member of the demo team after receiving a standing ovation from the local crowd. Diamond Game: Elite Performance Shines in Muju Meanwhile, Muju Taekwondowon hosted the long-awaited Diamond Game from July 11 to 13, part of the “Game Diamante” series by World Taekwondo—an elite G4-ranked competition gathering top kyorugi athletes. Stars like Ulugbek Rashitov (UZB) and Firas Katousi (TUN) faced off in high-level tactical matches, competing for crucial Olympic ranking points. The event featured a glamorous format with mixed matches and elevated the competition experience for both athletes and spectators. Taekwondo Goes Viral: Global Media Impact World Taekwondo’s digital strategy—through live broadcasts, daily recaps, and interactive social media posts—has succeeded in reaching new audiences. Official platforms have generated millions of views, especially from breaking highlights and team fights. Moreover, international media such as Korea.net and specialized sports channels have provided extensive coverage, reinforcing taekwondo’s image as a modern, visual, and thrilling sport. Beyond the Mat: Wellness, Inclusion, and Culture The events also included spaces for reflecting on athlete mental health, mixed-category inclusion, and taekwondo as an educational and social tool. These efforts are part of WT’s value-based program leading up to the next Olympic cycle toward Los Angeles 2028. Looking Ahead With an eye on the upcoming World Championships in Wuxi (China, October 2025) and Olympic qualification for LA 2028, taekwondo continues to evolve—blending tradition with innovation. source:https://mundotaekwondo.com/