Ra’s journey
Spreading Taekwondo values of mental fortitude
WHAT began as a volunteering opportunity to share his love for Taekwondo has transformed into a 14-year commitment for Sanghyun Ra, who remains in Fiji with a mission to instill the values and principles of the martial art.
“Mental fortitude and discipline form the essence of Taekwondo, and these were aspects noticeably lacking in many of the athletes I encountered,” expressed Master Ra, as he is commonly known.
Arriving in Fiji, Master Ra initially collaborated with the Fiji Police Force to teach Taekwondo. Identifying a significant gap in mental strength and discipline among Fijians, he aimed to address these weaknesses.
“Overcoming pain and resisting laziness were some of the challenges I observed, and my goal was to effect a positive change,” he shared.
“Our approach involves pushing athletes to their limits and encouraging them to develop mental strength, discipline, and character.”
Hailing from Daegu, South Korea, Master Ra acknowledged the natural athleticism of Fijian athletes but emphasised the need for them to harness discipline.
Having taken athletes to various competitions locally, regionally, and internationally, he pinpointed mindset as a key factor affecting their performance.
“Our focus is on teaching control and discipline so that these athletes can contribute positively to society when they transition into the working world,” emphasised Master Ra.
“It’s not just about performing at 100 per cent during competitions; it’s about preparing them for life after sports.”
Expressing concern for the unseen paths former athletes often tread, he added, “I want all my athletes not only to build self-control and discipline but also to possess the attributes that make them employable and valuable contributors to society.”
Anticipating a groundbreaking opportunity, Master Ra is enthusiastic about the possibility of a Fiji athlete participating in the Olympic Games.
“This year holds a good chance for us to qualify athletes for the Olympics and Paralympic Games,” he remarked.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance for our athletes to shine on the grand stage, and I encourage them to give their 110 per cent in training and competitions.”
Looking ahead, the Fiji Taekwondo
Association is set to send five athletes to a World Taekwondo-funded Solomon Island Taekwondo Training Camp on January 20, 2024.
The camp aims to prepare athletes for a historic opportunity to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, in July.
A highlight of the camp is the presence of Professor JeongWoo Jeon of Kyung Hee University, former coach of the 2004 Olympic national team in Korea, and coach Lee Dong-wan, renowned for coaching the Chinese, Taiwanese, Hong Kong, and Korean national teams.
Their expertise is expected to positively impact the Oceania training camp.
The journey for Taekwondo athletes from the Pacific Region will culminate in a yetto-be-determined competition, determining who will earn the chance to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games.