Participants of the 2019 Incheon KTF-ITU Coaches Courses organised by the Korea Triathlon Federation and funded by Korean Sport and Olympic Committee enjoyed a social and cultural day on 3 November in Seoul, South Korea. Dressed in traditional Korean clothing, 72 coaches from around the globe had the opportunity to visit Gyeongbokgung, the beautiful royal palace of the Joseon dynasty built in 1395. Gyeongbokgung served as the home of Kings of the Joseon dynasty, the Kings’ households, as well as the government of Joseon. Today the National Folk Museum of Korea is also located inside the palace.

After visiting Gyeongbokgung, the group enjoyed healthy Korean cuisine and headed for a walk on the colourful shopping streets of downtown Seoul. Collecting some souvenirs and watching various street performances for a few hours made the group ready for diner, which took place in a traditional Seoul restaurant. Mr. Justin Sukwon Park, President of the Korea Triathlon Federation and President of the Asian Triathlon Confederation gave a welcome speech to coaches and facilitators, then presented KTF’s gifts to course participants. Mr. Jae Keun Lee, Secretary General of KTF, Mr. SJ Lim ASTC Senior Manager and Mr. Ki Woo Kyong ASTC Development Coordinator were also present for the diner.

One of the major benefits of the KTF-ITU Coach Education Programme for ODA countries lies in its global approach. As coaches and facilitators gather here every year from developing countries from all the five continents, this is an unparalleled networking opportunity for all, that after all mainly benefits the sport of triathlon. Friendships and collaborative relationships are made here, that hopefully continue in mutual knowledge- and experience sharing, joint projects and training camps.

Similar to the team-building function of this social and cultural day, morning group-runs have almost become a tradition of the ITU Coaches Courses. Participants are more than welcome to join their facilitators on these occasions and have the opportunity of free and informal discussions during the run, and this strong tradition was continued enthusiastically this week in Incheon.