On 28 June, we—Joshua Lim (Perth), Jian Yi (Kelly) Koo (Sydney), and Uma Sapunar (Melbourne)—arrived in Haikou, Hainan, China to take part in the 2026 IWUF International Wushu Judges Training & Certification Course (IWJTCC). With the support and recommendation of our Masters, we were honoured to represent Australia and continue our progression toward becoming internationally certified judges.
Attending the Judging Course in Haikou was an exceptional professional and cultural experience. The program brought together 166 practitioners and judges from 39 countries around the world, creating a truly international learning environment grounded in precision, discipline, and shared passion for Wushu and Taichi.
The course itself was intensive, with each day blending detailed theory, practical demonstrations, and clear explanations of the evolving international judging standards. The lecturers were knowledgeable, clear, and deeply committed to maintaining fairness and consistency across global competitions, helping us understand not just what to judge, but why each standard matters. Their guidance helped clarify many of the subtle technical points that are difficult to grasp without hands-on experience.
Beyond the classroom, the atmosphere in Haikou added a memorable dimension to the experience. The organisers were welcoming, the facilities well prepared, and the city’s warm hospitality made the week both productive and enjoyable. Meeting fellow judges from different countries also broadened our perspective, reinforcing how diverse experiences enrich the global Wushu community.
Overall, the IWUF judging course was not only a valuable professional milestone but also a meaningful cultural exchange. It strengthened our confidence as young judges, deepened our technical understanding, and reaffirmed our commitment to supporting high-quality, standardised judging in future competitions.
