Olympic dream take center stage as Mombasa Open Tong-Il Moo-Do Championship begins

As countries from around the world streamed into Mombasa for the prestigious tournament, Kenya and Africa Tong-Il Moo-Do Federation President, Master Clarence Mwakio, warmly welcomed all participants and expressed gratitude to the Government of Kenya for supporting the return of the sport after nearly 22 months.

“This event has been a long time coming. We have waited for over 23 months, but with the support of the Government of Kenya, we are finally back on track,” said Master Mwakio.

He further thanked the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, for playing a key role in reviving the federation and ensuring the championship returned to the country.

“We are grateful for the support from the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, who made this historic event possible after a long wait. He saved the federation from a ban and enabled us to host this championship once again,” added Mwakio.

Initially, over 50 countries had confirmed participation in the tournament. However, due to logistical challenges and travel constraints, the number of participating nations is expected to be slightly lower.

“We had anticipated more than 50 countries, but delays and flight availability issues reduced the number of foreign participants. Nonetheless, by December 21, all teams from across the world will be in the country, and we will make this championship even greater,” Master Mwakio confirmed.

World Tong-Il Moo-Do Federation President, Grandmaster Takamitsu Hoshiko, also urged nations to support their local federations as the sport continues its push toward Olympic recognition.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Government of Kenya. Without their support, we would not have been able to host the Tong-Il Moo-Do Mombasa tournament for the past three years,” said Grandmaster Hoshiko.

“I am also grateful for the warm hospitality in this beautiful city of Mombasa. Through sport, the city is gaining global recognition, and Master Clarence is doing an excellent job in making Mombasa a special sporting destination”, Hoshiko added.

Grandmaster Hoshiko emphasised the importance of nurturing young athletes, noting that youth development remains central to the sport’s Olympic ambitions.

“We want to develop strong leadership among young people because they are the future of the world. Our ultimate goal is to feature in the Olympic Games, and all our preparations are geared toward achieving that dream,” he stated.

Vanuatu became one of the first countries to arrive in Mombasa for the championship, with more excitement expected on Saturday as additional nations continue to arrive.

The championship is scheduled to run until December 23, with Kenya’s Team Jasiri set to defend their title.