The 2024 USA Taekwondo National Championship in Texas saw ten dedicated athletes from the California School of Martial Arts – CALSMA TAEKWONDO demonstrating their talent, perseverance, and sportsmanship. The event was filled with thrilling matches, sparring techniques, and the spirit of competition. CALSMA’s team of 10 athletes earned a total of 2 gold and 4 bronze medals, with two students achieving the prestigious title of USA National Champion!
Here’s a highlight of their impressive achievements:
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL ATHLETES!!
Kyle Crabtree: A Champion’s Journey
Kyle Crabtree emerged victorious, clinching the gold medal and earning the title of the 2024 USA Taekwondo National Champion in his division. Crabtree’s journey to the top was no easy feat; he triumphed in three different fights, each lasting up to three rounds. Competing against seven athletes in his division, Crabtree’s excellence and determination were evident in every match.
Aunix Aguilar: Mastering Advanced Techniques
Aunix Aguilar shone brightly in the exhibition sparring event, securing a gold medal. Competing against an opponent two years older, Aguilar demonstrated advanced techniques with exceptional skill and precision. His performance was a testament to his dedication and rigorous training.
Jaslyn Yu Hian: A Bronze Medalist’s Grit
Jaslyn Yu Hian showcased her prowess by securing a third-place bronze medal. Competing fiercely in a highly competitive division, her performance was commendable and highlighted her growing expertise in taekwondo. She is a CALSMA Sparring Team Member and a former Team Captain of the 3 Time Champion -CALSMA Demonstration Team.
Nicole Yu Hian: Narrowly Missing the Podium
Despite not placing this year, Nicole Yu Hian fought valiantly, losing by just one point in the final seconds. Competing against 11 athletes in her division, Nicole’s strong performance and determination underline her potential for future competitions.
Garrett Wong: A Promising Talent
Garrett Wong, against 17 athletes in his division, earned a bronze medal. As a committed member of the sparring team, Garrett trains diligently every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evening, aside from his regular classes. His dedication is paying off, and he shows great promise for future success.
Gillian Wong: Rising to the Challenge
Gillian Wong won her first round but did not place in a division with 12 athletes. Despite competing against older and more experienced opponents, Gillian has shown remarkable improvement in her skills since joining the sparring team.
Alphonso Myers: Facing the Champion
Although Alphonso Myers did not place, he showcased his skills and determination by performing excellently in the second round. Having a total of nine athletes, including competing against the current 2024 National Team Champion, Alphonso’s promising future in taekwondo competitions is bright.
Ariel Vassallo: A Strong Debut
In her first year as a taekwondo student and first year joining a National Competition, Ariel Vassallo demonstrated her potential by earning a bronze medal in a division with five athletes competing. Her promising future in taekwondo competitions is evident.
Ezra Vassallo: First National Experience
Ezra Vassallo did not place this year, but his participation in his first national competition is a significant milestone. Having seven athletes competing in his division, Ezra gained valuable experience that will benefit him in future competitions.
Master Jun Quitain, the current 2024 USA Taekwondo National Champion and Team Members spot back in January in Jacksonville, Florida, also competed in Texas this weekend for Poomsae and earned a bronze medal. Facing six national championship athletes, Master Jun’s performance was inspiring and a testament to his skill and leadership.
The success of the CALSMA sparring team would not have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement of the parents. Their positivity and dedication, often arriving early or staying late to support other students, created a motivating environment and a strong community for the athletes.
A heartfelt thank you to Master Jun and Coach Mike for their dedication and effort in guiding the students through this challenging competition. Their expertise and commitment have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Congratulations to all the athletes for their outstanding performances and achievements at the 2024 USA Taekwondo National Championship. The future of CALSMA’s sparring team looks incredibly bright, and we look forward to witnessing more successes in the years to come.
