ITC 31st and SHAS 16th Anniversary Event

On the 25th of March, 2023, Island Taekwon-Do Centre (ITC) and Sun Hapkido Academy Singapore (SHAS) celebrated their 31st and 16th anniversaries at the Port 26 restaurant along MacPherson Road.

This was a memorable event for several reasons. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this was the first sizeable in-person gathering for all members, friends, and family of ITC and SHAS. The event was aptly themed “We’re back… Stronger” to pay tribute to our club and country’s challenges during the pandemic. We held the dinner at the Grantral Mall (previously Citimac), which was the dojang’s previous location. For the older ITC and SHAS members, coming back to this building brings back many bitter-sweet memories.

The event kicked off with our customary bow to Master Daniel Sng, the Chief Instructor and Founder of ITC and SHAS, after which he proceeded to welcome all guests with his opening speech. He shared on how the club adapted during the pandemic and transitioned to virtual classes, seminars, and competitions when physical classes were not allowed. His speech was heartfelt and everyone agreed that the club has indeed emerged stronger. The night continued with a slide presentation that captured important club events in the past three years.

As for the food, it was a buffet spread this year, and this setup allowed attendees to move around freely and catch up with old friends. The evening continued with a series of performances prepared by various ITC and SHAS members, with lucky draws in between. Prizes were attractive and each draw drew huge excitement from the hopeful attendees.

And of course, we had the cake cutting ceremony which saw Master Sng, Mdm Karen, and the organising committee, comprised of myself, Justin, Derrick, Yuki, Qi Zhao, Dylan, Calvin, Jeremy and Kelvin on stage, celebrating with all members.

Music, songs and joyous laughter continued to fill the night, and everyone enjoyed themselves, but all good things need to come to an end. Before the dinner ended, Master Sng reminded everyone that training would continue the following morning. He had already planned several “special” exercises to help us burn the extra calories... which drew some laughter from the crowd.

Taekwon,
Hong Chang

Written by Mr. Tan Hong Chang, 3rd Degree Black Belt, ITF Singapore
© Island Taekwon-Do Centre 2023