Team Vanuatu has returned home with pride after an impressive performance at the 12th Mombasa Open Tong-Il Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championships in Kenya, finishing 6th overall out of 14 participating countries.

The Vanuatu delegation competed against some of the strongest Tong-Il Moo-Do teams in the world and arrived back in the country earlier today at midday after completing the international tournament.

The team delivered a strong medal haul, winning a total of 10 medals, including 2 gold, 2 silver, and 6 bronze, highlighting the athletes’ discipline, determination, and fighting spirit on the global stage.

Gold medals were claimed by Rodney Bulesali and Aaron Papa in the Individual Bon competitions.
Silver medals were secured by Rodney Bulesali and Aaron Papa in Team Bon, as well as Aira Amadar, Rodney Bulesali, and Aaron Papa in Team Mixed Bon.

The bronze medals were won by Florence Emile, Rodney Bulesali, and Aaron Papa in sparring events, Aira Amadar and Florence Emile in Individual Bon, and Gichoom in the Team Demonstration category.

Officials from Tong-Il Moo-Do Vanuatu described the result as a proud moment for the country, noting that the achievement reflects the hard work of the athletes, the dedication of the coaches, and the strong support from parents, sponsors, and supporters.

Competing at an international level against powerhouse nations, Team Vanuatu represented the country with pride and honour, lifting the national flag high and reinforcing Vanuatu’s growing presence in international martial arts.

Tong-Il Moo-Do is a Korean martial art that combines self-defence techniques, sparring, forms (Bon), and demonstrations, emphasizing discipline, respect, mental focus, and physical strength. Competitions test athletes in both individual and team events, including controlled sparring, technical forms, and synchronized demonstrations.