South Dublin Taekwondo

A double of silvers were achieved at the Belgian Open in Brussels last weekend by South Dublin Taekwondo duo David Phelan & Emma Cahill. The event in Lommel was a G2 (grade 2 event) which means senior events have double ranking points. With no ranking points available for minor ages, the event still draws strong fields of international youth athletes from all continents, traveling alongside their senior counterparts. The duo both had a total of 5 Matches each fighting off some of the most prominent fighters in their respective divisions. In her -41kg cadet division, Cahill saw off efforts from international athletes from Poland, Germany, Netherlands and Canada before her final match against German opposition. Similarly, Phelan had a quadruple of wins versus Spain, Germany, Netherlands & Serbia and finally a defeat against Hungary in his -63kg Junior division. Coach Robert Taaffe commented on their performances, ‘We moved both players up a weight division as a trial exercise & to future proof the near future so medals were not necessarily expected, but both set out with real intent and their adjusted approach to fights against bigger opposition worked well. Their momentum was phenomenal and they really made an impact for the Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Both showed great patience & control & their mental approach was on point.’ The duo now get back to training in advance of upcoming outings in Germany & Bulgaria in the coming weeks.