As we reach the midpoint of 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been one of the most rewarding and significant quarters in recent memory […]
Australian Taekwondo’s National Poomsae Team has enjoyed a highly successful campaign at the 2026 Australian Open G2, Oceania President’s Cup G3 and Oceania Championships G4, producing outstanding performances across three days of international competition on the Gold Coast.
The events marked an important milestone for the Australian program as the team continues its preparations towards the 2026 World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships in Chuncheon, South Korea.
Australia produced impressive results across all three competitions:
The team also secured two Overall Team Trophy second place finishes, further demonstrating the depth and strength of Australia’s developing Poomsae program.
National Head Coach Josh Flinn acknowledged the commitment of the national coaching and support staff throughout the campaign.
“These results are a reflection of an incredible team effort. I would like to sincerely thank our coaching group — Sam Yang (Technical Coordinator & National Coach), Andy Yang, Yu-Shu Flinn and Ross Hartnett (National Coaches) — whose professionalism, technical expertise and commitment to athlete development continue to raise the standard of Australian Poomsae. Together we are building a culture centred on excellence, accountability and continuous improvement.”
Special recognition was also given to Team Manager Maddy Houston and Team Doctor Dr Evie Rank, whose organisation, professionalism and athlete care ensured the team was exceptionally supported throughout the event.
The performances also highlighted the exciting depth emerging throughout the Australian Poomsae Performance Pathway Program, with athletes ranging from first-time national representatives through to experienced international competitors contributing to the team’s success.
“Whether this was your first time wearing the green and gold or you are one of our experienced athletes, every member of the team represented Australia with pride, humility and determination. As coaches, we couldn’t be prouder of the commitment shown both during competition and throughout the entire campaign.”
Australian Taekwondo also extends its appreciation to the organising committee, referees, volunteers and event staff whose efforts delivered three outstanding international events and provided athletes with a world-class competition experience.
While the medal tally reflects a successful campaign, the focus now turns firmly towards September’s World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships in Chuncheon, South Korea.
The Australian team will continue its preparation through the National High Performance, Performance Pathway Program, and upcoming Performance Pathway Camp in Canberra, with the performances from the Australian Open, Oceania President’s Cup and Oceania Championships providing strong momentum heading into Poomsaes pinnacle event.
With a talented athlete group, experienced coaching team and an exciting culture continuing to develop, Australian Taekwondo Poomsae looks forward to proudly representing Australia on the world stage in Chuncheon.
Across three international events — the President’s Cup, Australian Open and Oceania
Championships — Australian Para Poomsae athletes set new records for both participation and
medals.
Building on the growth of Para Poomsae in Australia and the launch of the Para Poomsae
Performance Pathway Program in early 2026, a record 14 Australian Para Poomsae athletes
competed across the three events, dominating multiple sport classes.
Standout performers included Annika Best, Chae Yon Seo, Alex Nikolarakos, Natalie Craig,
Brendon Leeder and Joshua Pelusi, who each won three gold medals across the three events.
Para Poomsae athletes now turn their focus to the 2026 National Championships in October while
awaiting confirmation on whether a Para Poomsae World Championships will be held this year.
The success of Australia’s Para Poomsae athletes would not be possible without the support of
their dedicated coaches, clubs and families.
If you are an athlete with a disability and interested in competing in para poomsae, head to the AT
website for information on how to get involved.
As we reach the midpoint of 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been one of the most rewarding and significant quarters in recent memory […]
Australia enjoyed an impressive campaign at the WT President’s Cup, with six athletes stepping onto the podium and delivering strong performances across the tournament. Winning two silver medals and four bronze, the Australian team showed its quality, resilience, marking their territory on home soil.
Australia’s para taekwondo program will be represented by two athletes on the Gold Coast this month, with Shrijana Ghising and Evie Ruffle set to contest the Australian Open, WT President’s Cup and Oceania Championships in an important competition block ahead of the Para World Championships later this year.
