Four Rwandans have earned the internationally-recognized fourth Dan after the promotion tests that were held by Rwanda Taekwondo Federation (RTF) on Friday at Amahoro indoor stadium. The event that was conducted by American expert, Martin Koonce on behalf of World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), saw four local 3rd Dan black belt holders receive international accreditation after passing the fourth Dan test, Koonce also doubles as RTF’s technical director. The four include Placide Bagabo, the RTF secretary general, who also received International Referees’ Certificate after a-one week training in Agadir city during last year’s Morocco International Taekwondo Open. Others are; Irene Allan Bagire the national team coach, Boniface Mbonigaba and Eugene Ntawangundi, who are the national development officers. “We are very happy for this achievement, it is a great step towards the development of the sport not only in Rwanda but also in other countries,” said Bagire. Under taekwondo rules, 3rd Dan holders are only allowed to train and teach the martial art sport in their home countries, however; according Bagire after passing the 4th Dan test, the quartet can now take up coaching jobs outside Rwanda. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
