Local MP champions Harrogate Taekwondo Club in Parliament
Today, Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, celebrated Harrogate Taekwondo Club in Parliament and urged the government to better support grassroots sports.
This follows Tom’s visit to the 9th Annual Harrogate KTA Mayor Cup Poomsae Open Taekwondo Championship last weekend, hosted by K.R. Ali Taekwondo Academy—a club founded by Master Kambiz R. Ali in 2005. Originally based at Harrogate Hydro, the academy has since expanded to eight locations across North Yorkshire, making a huge impact on the local community and beyond. Tom joined the club in celebrating their 20th anniversary this weekend.
The event saw over 400 competitors from across the UK, as well as international participants from Portugal, Germany, and Morocco. The majority of referees were global experts, and the competition even introduced a brand-new style of Taekwondo, never before seen at competition level in the UK.
Tom had a fantastic time at the competition this weekend and was deeply impressed by how well-organised it was, bringing together competitors and judges from around the world. He was, however, shocked to learn that Master Ali had to fund the championship himself due to a lack of financial support.
Speaking in Parliament today, Tom called on the Minister to congratulate and honour the incredible event and asked whether the government would commit to spending some time discussing supporting grassroots sports. The Minister joined Tom in congratulating the academy.
This weekend, Tom saw firsthand how important grassroots sports are – not just in developing talent but in uniting people from around the world. He’s calling for better funding and support for clubs like K.R. Ali Taekwondo Academy, so they can continue hosting world-class competitions without having to cover the costs themselves.
Commenting, Tom said:
‘Grassroot sports are incredibly important for local communities, but they need proper government backing.
‘I had an incredible time at the KTA Mayor Cup Poomsae Open, witnessing the talent, discipline and sportsmanship on display. Master Ali deserves huge praise for running this academy for 20 years and organising such a fantastic event.
‘The government must do more to support clubs like this – providing funding opportunities so they can thrive and continue making a difference in the sporting world.
ENDS