Payton urges young Fijians to embrace Taekwondo

US (United States) Embassy Public Affairs officer Strader Payton encouraged young people in Fiji to take up the sport of Taekwondo.

This came after he took part in a basic Taekwondo skills session at the Taekwondo booth during the Try a Sport Programme, organised by the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) at Albert Park on Saturday.

“I think Taekwondo is one of the greatest activities you can encourage your children to do,” Payton said.

“It teaches discipline, agility and physical fitness.”

Payton practiced Taekwondo from the age of 11 until 16.

“I was obsessed. I went to the Dojang about four days a week,” he said.

“I had my second-degree black belt by the time I finished.”

Payton said Taekwondo teaches respect.

“I look forward to taking my daughter to Taekwondo classes when she’s older,” he said.

“Taking part today reminds me of the really great memories I had when I was training in Taekwondo back in America.”

Payton highlighted that Taekwondo is a great sport for developing physical fitness and confidence.

“Confidence in how you move and carry yourself, but also respect,” he said.

“It makes me happy and proud to have those experiences when I was young, and it’s good to see it being continued with the younger generation in Fiji.”