The National Governing Body of the United States for Tae Kwon Do, USA-Taekwondo, will be commencing the Junior Olympic and Senior Nationals on June 29-July 5, 2009, in Austin, Texas.  World Class Competitors from every state will be in attendance for the event.  To compete in the World Class category, the individual must have won gold or silver at a sanctioned State Tournament or medalled at a sanctioned Regional Event.  Potentially, there can be a total of 124 individuals in each weight category, belt, and age group. 

Forms competition consists of a double elimination demonstration of technique, grace, and power.  Sparring competition is 3 two minute rounds with the declared winner having the most points for kicking the opponent in the body or head with their foot and punches to the body.  With the proper protective gear and supervision, Tae Kwon Do is a safe sport in which practitioners of all ages can enjoy.  Tae Kwon Do is the fastest growing martial art worldwide, which is why it is an Olympic Sport.

Han's Tae Kwon Do Academy has qualified 29 individuals through the State and Regional pipeline to compete in the National Championships.  Twenty-three members of the team will be making the journey to Austin at the end of the month.  Our competitors will be representing Bakersfield and California in the largest Tae Kwon Do competition of the year.  Good luck to the Han's Tae Kwon Do Progression Team.

  Top row:  Christian Rangel, Zeph Villafuerte, Kristian Phounsavath, John Estacio, Reanna Carino, Tisha Phounsavath, Gia Villafuerte, AJ Carino, Rashall Holguin, Mark Agbalog.

Middle row:  Tsid Villafuerte, Jethro Villafuerte, Garrett Pedersen, Jillian Medina, Valerie House, Justin Rodriguez, Ethan Gallegos, Joey Stieger.

Bottom row:  Shasta Phounsavath, Gaby Abuyen, Cristian Morillo, Chris Crisostomo, Cole Pedersen, Anthony Pineda, Makayla Mazo, Jon Gallegos, Miah Villafuerte, Rhoda Hernando.