Also similar to Taekwondo, Dae Han Moo Do Kwan (DHMDK) Kumdo was founded in Australia by Master Byung Kwan Song in 1994 and operates out of Auburn Youth Centre in Lidcombe.
Coming in the top 16 in the World Kendo Championships in South Korea in 2018, Teacher Dwight Park says DHMDK preserves and upholds the traditional methods of Kumdo, where respect and honour are key values.
“Through his teachings, Master Song endeavours to strengthen the minds of his students by the means of disciplinary training and self-control,” Dwight said.
“Developing the physical skills using bamboo swords, comes secondary to the mental aspects.”
Dwight said it was a relief when NSW Health permitted their return to training on July 2 but they are still adhering to the Covid-safe restrictions, including all participants must wear a mask.
“Unfortunately, all the championship titles have been cancelled this year and early next as we were keen to get to the world championships in France,” he said.
“In 2018, our women’s team came third in the world. It’s the ideal sport for children and men and women of all ages, with the skills supporting other areas of your life.”
Encouraging each participant to give each session their fighting best, DHMDK holds three training sessions a week, Tuesday and Thursday, 7-9pm, and Saturday, 4-6pm and caters for all skill levels with students starting from as young as eight; it’s a registered provider so parents can use the active kids voucher.
For more info, visit dhmdk.org.
