AMERICAN OPEN EAST SURGES 29% AS NEW TOURNAMENT CEMENTS ITS PLACE ON THE NATIONAL CALENDAR

AMERICAN OPEN EAST SURGES 29% AS NEW TOURNAMENT CEMENTS ITS PLACE ON THE NATIONAL CALENDAR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

USA Taekwondo's American Open East tournament takes place next weekend in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, with over 1,300 athletes and coaches registered to compete. Year-on-year growth of 29% signals that the event is rapidly becoming one of the sport's most anticipated fixtures in the United States.

The numbers reflect a broader surge in participation across the country, with competitors travelling to Pennsylvania from across the nation to test themselves in a high-quality competitive environment spanning all age categories.

Christy Simmons, who is directing the event, said the growth speaks to the strength of the taekwondo community nationwide. "This growth reflects the expanding passion for taekwondo across the United States and the commitment of our community to excellence, sportsmanship, and development at every level. Events like this not only elevate competition but also strengthen the foundation of our sport for future generations."

For CEO Steve McNally, the tournament's trajectory speaks directly to USA Taekwondo's wider ambitions. "The American Open East is no longer a new event. It's established, it's growing, and it belongs on every serious competitor's calendar. If we're going to achieve our goal of being competitive across all age categories on the world stage, we have to give our athletes the quality competition opportunities they need to develop. Events like this one are exactly how we build that foundation."

The American Open East joins a national competition calendar that USA Taekwondo continues to develop with an eye on long-term athlete development and international success.

About USA Taekwondo

USA Taekwondo is the National Governing Body for Taekwondo in the U.S., recognized by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and World Taekwondo. The organization is responsible for the selection, training and funding of U.S. teams for the Olympic Games, Pan American Games, World Championships, and other international competition, while serving its members through leadership, resources, and opportunities in taekwondo. USATKD supports athletes and officials from grassroots to elite levels, offering programs that build champions on and off the mat.

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