From Friday 26th through to Sunday 28th April 2019, the Pencak Silat Federation of the United Kingdom sent teams to the 24th Belgian Open Championships held in Schoten, returning with a Gold and Bronze trophy in the Tanding (fighting) categories. The largest championships held in Europe, open to clubs as well as national teams from across the world, this year marked a first in the Belgium Open for the attendance of some countries, including the Philippines.
Another landmark was the inclusion of the Seni (Artistic Performance) category alongside Tanding — a first in the history of the Belgium Open. Over a hundred competitors represented Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Philippines, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America, and Vietnam.
Seni — Debut Performances
The UK were represented in Seni by two debut competitors — Mouna Ali from Gerak Ilham and Gentiana Krusha. Watching strong execution by seasoned athletes from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore, the ladies managed to hold their own. Mouna finished with an overall score of 429, placing sixth out of eight, whilst Gentiana scored 419, one point away from tying with Austria. Despite not winning medals, both gave performances they could be proud of. The winners of the Female Tunggal category were the current World Champions from Indonesia.
Tanding Results
Team UK were represented in Male Tanding by a large team from Silat Persaudaraan Setia Hati Terate (PSHT) and Silat Gerak Ilham.
Djibrill Aoudou of Silat Gerak Ilham demonstrated his skill and experience, beating Holland in the quarter-finals and Germany in the semi-finals of the Open weight category. Facing France in the finals, Djibrill built up a significant lead in the first two rounds with takedowns and scissors. Despite sustaining an injury before the last bout, he maintained his lead and won Gold — 5 flags to none.
The PSHT contingent brought first-time competitors who fought valiantly. Joao Francisco Marques Correia (Class A) fought very well but lost to Indonesia, securing a Bronze trophy. Other competitors who represented the UK included Gaspar Flavio Belo, Ponciano Antonio Correia, Adolfino Dos Santos Ximenes, Joao Jose Philipe, Jesuino Imanuel Dos Santos, and Bonifacio Filipe Gusmao.
In an exciting and busy weekend, the UK team displayed honour, sportsmanship and heart. The newer athletes gained invaluable experience competing at the highest level in Europe.