Bulgarian Taekwondo Federation plans open-air tournament to battle back against COVID-19

The Bulgarian Taekwondo Federation (BTF) is to organize an open-air tournament as they aim to hold safe competition amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Sofia's National Sports Academy Stadium is scheduled to stage the event on September 29, with bouts taking place on the athletics track

Competitors from all levels and age groups have been invited to take part, with the event set to be named after Valerius Naydenov, who is considered as the pioneer of taekwondo in Bulgaria.

Both sparring and poomsae are due to take place, as well as technical breaking.

Everyone taking part will be invited to break boards which will be engraved with an image of the COVID-19 virus.

"The breakdown of the board will carry a symbolism of immunization and victory over COVID-19," the BTF added. 

"Victory needed for the whole world." 

Bulgaria's last taekwondo success on the global stage was the bronze medal won by Vladimir Dalakliev in the men's under-68 kilograms featherweight category, at the 2017 World Championships in Muju.