On the weekend of June 1st to June 2nd, 2024, the annual European Championship of the International Hapkido Cooperation (IHC) took place in the historic town of Wittenberg. This major sporting event was organized by the local Hapkido Dojang Wittenberg under the expert leadership of Grandmaster Volker Gößling and his wife, Master Nadine Gößling.
The event attracted 180 participants from various European countries, resulting in over 400 starts across different competition categories. Competitors participated in a wide range of categories, including long jump, combat, self-defense, traditional forms, general weapon forms, long staff forms, sword forms, show, and breaking test. To ensure fair competition, participants within each category were separated by rank, age, weight, and gender.
The atmosphere in the competition arena was filled with excitement and sporting ambition. Families, friends, and Hapkido enthusiasts gathered to support the athletes and admire their impressive skills. Each discipline required a high level of technique, precision, and discipline, and the participants did their utmost to shine in their respective categories.
The award ceremonies were a special highlight of the event. The top 3 in each category were honored with medals and certificates, giving due recognition to their outstanding performances. The joy and pride of the winners were palpable as they received their well-deserved awards.
In addition to the sporting competitions, there was also significant recognition for the many organizers, helpers, and referees who made this large event possible. Their hard work and dedication were acknowledged and appreciated during a formal ceremony.
Another notable aspect of the championship was the charitable fundraising campaign for the Paul-Gerhardt-Foundation. A total of €1,000 was raised, a generous gesture that underscores the social commitment of the Hapkido community and shows how sport and social welfare can go hand in hand.
A significant event during the championship was the appointment of Grandmaster Volker Gößling and Grandmaster Martin Zingel as the new Vice Presidents of the International Hapkido Cooperation. This appointment, carried out by Grandmaster Franz Josef Wolf, the President of the IHC, marks an important step in the development and future security of the organization. Grandmasters Gößling and Zingel will now be trained as successors to Grandmaster Wolf, to take over the leadership of the IHC in the future. Grandmaster Manfred Salmhofer, who served as Vice President of the IHC for many years, was honorably recognized for his long-standing and tireless work.
The Open European Championship Hapkido 2024 in Wittenberg was not only a sporting highlight but also a significant social event. It brought together people from different countries and cultures who shared a passion for Hapkido. The event fostered the exchange of techniques, ideas, and friendships, and strengthened the unity within the Hapkido community. It was an impressive example of how sport can build bridges and connect people.