New Straits Times , 21 December 2009

THE Tropicana City Mall in Damansara was a scene of kicks and punches on Saturday as 200 exponents joined hands to make the Milo-SportsUnite-MTCA Taekwondo Poomsae (pattern) Carnival a resounding success.

Under-12 and Under-18 (both boys and girls) exponents from several clubs from around the Klang Valley competed in 12 different categories.

The categories were green belts and below (four) and blue belts and above.

A unique two-exponent team event (four categories) was also held with the requirement that all pairs consist of two different races.

"It was exciting to watch the team event, especially as we decided on a format where the organisers chose the pairings," said SportsUnite Sports Club chairman Datuk Dina Rizal.

"The idea was to help foster new friendships and it worked wonderfully. Not only did it create a sense of unity but also ensured that when the exponents meet again in future events, they will have friends from all over."

Dina said the carnival was not only about winning as it was more to serve as exposure to exponents.

"We had kids as young as seven taking part and they did wonderfully. Performing before a large crowd can be unnerving but they handled it like professionals and this augurs well for their development -- education and sports wise."

Dina said the success of the event had motivated the organisers to plan an event on a bigger scale next year.

Winners pose with their medals after the Milo-SportsUnite-MTCA Taekwondo Poomsae Carnival at the Tropicana City Mall in Damansara on Saturday.