When Glen took up the ancient martial art of Taekwondo as an extra-curricular activity, little did he know that this would be the source of all his passion and his ticket to national fame. A seventh grader has much to indulge himself in — abandoned homework, a playground all for himself and friends who are ready for some mischief! But Glen had other plans.
Knock outPursuing this art from the age of 12, Glen’s biggest inspiration was his coach who has dedicated his life to the sport. “He is a strong force who is capable of generating and tapping good talent from India,” says Glen. “Bharath sir taught me the importance of discipline and respect and I feel as a sportsman, those are the most crucial lessons one should learn to succeed.” Working presently with Amazon.com, this 21-year-old’s first ever experience competing was something hardly he can remember! And there’s a good reason too. Fighting up against a junior would make anybody feel a tad superior but Glen got a switch kick in his face, thanks to his competitor’s advanced flexibility. “He was shorter than me, so I didn’t think he could do much!” smiles Glen. “But he kicked me straight in the nose and knocked me out.”
The training and exercise regime that a Taekwondo player has to undergo is the most challenging part of the art. “Training is hard, but fruitful in the end,” says Glen. “Before tournaments start, we run for a minimum of seven kms in the morning and then begin our routine workouts. Depending on the coach, the training will vary. Workouts like power kick workouts, gym workouts, endurance improvisation, techniques and shadow sparring are practiced.” A Korean martial art, Taekwondo is a heady mix of combat and self-defence techniques. A type of sparring, the event has been part of the Olympics since 2000. Taekwondo training includes a consistent system of blocks, punches, kicks, sweeps, joint locks and open-handed strikes. “Taekwondo is a martial art is a sport where you fight your opponent to score points with kicks and punches,” says Glen.
“Speed, power, flexibility, mental techniques, stamina and courage are the six core blocks of this game. You will be given a wireless electronic chest gear and a normal head gear, gloves and electronic socks. These are made in a way that if a powerful kick is delivered, the opponent’s chest will score 1 point automatically. Kicks towards the head will be decided by the referees, usually a three- pointer.” Glen explains that Taekwondo is absolutely the most advanced of sports, with high speed kicks that have a greater impact. “It also teaches you to be disciplined. Self-defence is another thing that this art teaches you.”
Success MantraSo what is the magic mantra to succeed in this sport? “You should never give up!” says Glen confidently. “The more you play tournaments, the more you improve your game. Hardwork and dedication is a must to excel in Taekwondo.” Glen has played three national games as a Sub-junior, Junior and Senior placing twice in the South Zones. On September 23, 2013, Glen headed to Manipur where he met many other Taekwondo champions and interacted with them.
The experience for was one that he would never forget. “It was my first senior national tournament. The players I met there had this fierce passion in them for Taekwondo, and more than anything I was inspired. I hope some time in the future I get to meet Taekwondo gods Steven Lopez from the U.S. and maybe compete with Servat Tazegul from Spain,” grins Glen.
Glen has a few upcoming matches in the near future and hopes to represent India in the martial art of Taekwondo for the Olympics.
