Hidalgo Sport. Lauro Campos.- Over the weekend, the Hidalguense Sports Center and High-Performance Sports Center (CDHAR) transformed into a hub of athletic excellence, hosting the state-level taekwondo qualifiers. Over 400 competitors from across the region showcased their skills, vying for a coveted spot on the Hidalgo national team.
The tournament unfolded across six designated zones within the facility. Five of these zones were reserved for sparring matches, while the sixth was dedicated to the precision and artistry of forms competitions.
This prestigious event,orchestrated by the Hidalgo Taekwondo Association (AHTKD) under the leadership of Francisco Javier Mercado,drew participants from numerous municipalities,underscoring the widespread enthusiasm for the sport in the region.
Kicking off the event,an inaugural ceremony was held,attended by key figures from the Hidalguense sports Institute,including CDHAR director Fernando Pérez Serrano. The ceremony celebrated the dedication of the athletes and acknowledged the unwavering support of their families, who play a pivotal role in nurturing their sporting ambitions.
francisco Javier Mercado Pérez, AHTKD president, emphasized the overwhelming turnout as a testament to the state’s deep-rooted passion for taekwondo. he noted that only the top performers in each category would secure a place on the state team, which will later compete in the regional qualifiers for the Conade 2025 National Games.
While specifics about the regional qualifiers’ location and schedule remain under wraps, Mercado Pérez revealed plans for preparatory camps to ensure the selected athletes remain in peak condition. He also expressed the association’s ambitious goal to exceed their previous success at the Conade 2024 Nationals, where Hidalgo proudly claimed 11 medals.
Exclusive Interview with Coach Francisco Javier Mercado: Insights from the Hidalgo Taekwondo Qualifiers
moderator: Good afternoon, Coach Francisco Javier Mercado, and thank you for joining us today. The recent state-level taekwondo qualifiers hosted at the Hidalguense Sports Center were a massive success, drawing over 400 competitors. Can you share your thoughts on the event and what it means for taekwondo in hidalgo?
Coach Mercado: Thank you for having me. The qualifiers were indeed a momentous occasion. Seeing so many talented athletes from across the region was truly inspiring. This event not onyl highlights the competitive spirit of taekwondo but also underscores the passion and dedication of our athletes and their families. It’s a testament to how deeply rooted taekwondo is in our culture here in Hidalgo.
Moderator: The tournament featured six zones, with five dedicated to sparring and one to forms competitions. Do you believe this structure effectively showcases the full range of taekwondo skills?
Coach Mercado: Absolutely. Taekwondo is a multifaceted discipline that combines both physical combat and artistic expression. The sparring zones test an athlete’s agility,strategy,and resilience,while the forms zone highlights precision,control,and creativity. This structure ensures we’re selecting well-rounded athletes who excel in all aspects of the sport.
Moderator: You mentioned that the top performers in each category will represent hidalgo in the regional qualifiers for the Conade 2025 National Games. What’s your strategy for preparing these athletes for the next stage?
Coach Mercado: Preparation is key.We’re planning intensive preparatory camps focused on strength, technique, and mental conditioning. Our goal is to ensure our athletes are in peak condition to face the challenges ahead. We’re also analyzing their performance during the qualifiers to identify areas for enhancement.
Moderator: Hidalgo won 11 medals at the Conade 2024 Nationals. With such a strong foundation, do you believe your team can surpass this achievement in 2025?
Coach Mercado: Without a doubt. Our athletes are more motivated then ever, and we’ve learned valuable lessons from last year’s competition. We’re setting ambitious goals, and with hard work and determination, I’m confident we can bring home even more medals.
Moderator: Let’s open the floor to our readers. What are your thoughts on the state of taekwondo in Hidalgo? Do you believe the qualifiers are an effective way to nurture talent? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Coach Mercado: I encourage everyone to engage in this discussion. Taekwondo is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life that teaches discipline, respect, and perseverance. Your support and feedback are invaluable as we continue to grow and evolve.
Moderator: Thank you,Coach Mercado,for your insights and for your tireless efforts in promoting taekwondo in Hidalgo. To our readers, stay tuned for more updates on the regional qualifiers and the journey of Hidalgo’s taekwondo team. Let’s keep the conversation alive!
