Justin Chan, 10, a Murrieta resident who is also a 2nd degree black belt, brought home a bronze medal after competing in the U.S. Open Taekwondo Championships, Feb. 19-23, at the Las Vegas Hotel.
Justin claimed the medal in forms for the 10- through 11-year-old division.
“The annual U.S. Open Taekwondo Championships is one of the highest rated international Taekwondo competitions in the world. The U.S. Open attracts the world's best black belt Taekwondo competitors, including world champions and Olympic medalists,” said Justin’s mom Amy Chan.
“There were more than 2,000 competitors ranging in age from 10 to 70 from more than 70 registered countries. About 5,000 spectators came to watch the world-class sparring (kyoroogi) and forms (poomsae) competition,” she said.
“Justin was coached by his long-time coach Master Jef Go. He has been training with Master Jef since the age of 3,” Amy added.
Justin trains privately with Master Jef twice a week at the Chan's home gym. He is currently enrolled at USIMA in Menifee for regular classes, but the advanced training is done with Master Jef, Amy explained.
Where is the young athlete headed from here?
“His ultimate goal is to be a part of the U.S. National Team in both poomsae and sparring," Amy said.
