ITF Elite Stage and Competition 2026
La Nucía, Spain, 9th. to 11th. of January 2026
By Roy Rolstad
The 4th edition of the ITF Elite Stage and Competition in La Nucía Spain was an outstanding way to kick off 2026. For me personally it was a true honor to be invited to present the ITF Radix project for the second time at this event.
Being given the opportunity to share the ideas behind ITF Radix and how patterns can be understood as a complete fighting system means a great deal to me. The feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed that this way of approaching Taekwon Do resonates with practitioners from many different backgrounds. Just as valuable was the chance to train alongside the other presenters. The level of knowledge openness and mutual respect at the Elite Stage creates an environment that is both inspiring and motivating.
ITF Radix sessions at the Elite Stage
On Saturday I conducted two sessions from 12:00 to 13:00 and again from 17:00 to 18:00. Originally my plan was to run a free sparring session but during the process I chose instead to focus on two sessions built around practical applications drawn from different patterns. This allowed for deeper exploration of principles structure timing and adaptability and led to excellent engagement and discussion on the floor.
During the demonstrations I had the pleasure of working with Master Johann de Silva the driving force behind
His ability to adapt instantly during live demonstrations was remarkable and contributed greatly to the quality of the sessions. I would strongly encourage everyone to check out the TKD Tekkers app as well. The depth and quality of the content there is truly worth your time.
Contrast
Traveling from -15 C in Oslo to a comfortable 15 C in La Nucía was of course a welcome contrast. But beyond the climate and beyond the high level training sessions it is the people who make the Elite Stage special.
The atmosphere here is very different from competition events. While competitions naturally create tension and self consciousness the Elite Stage is relaxed open and approachable. People come to learn share ideas and connect across organizations countries and generations.
Gratitude
I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved.
Grand Master Wim Bos Master Paco and their entire team for creating and hosting such a unique event.
My mentor Grand Master Per Andresen and my entire Norwegian family.
Master Johann de Silva and the TKD Tekkers team.
And my lovely daughter Alba for being there with me. I am incredibly proud of her.
Finally thank you to all the amazing people who attended the Elite Stage. You helped make this event something truly special and set the tone for what I believe will be a fantastic year ahead.
Thank you 🙏
Roy Rolstad
