Sonoma’s Taekwondo summit

The Sonoma School of Martial Arts hosted the first-ever Taekwondo tournament in the city of Sonoma, drawing 125 competitors from schools throughout Northern California to the Sonoma Valley High School gym.

Grandmaster Robert J. Morey, lead instructor at the Sonoma School of Martial Arts and a three-time state champion, was pleased with the inaugural event.  “It was quite successful and I am thankful to all the parents who  helped put this together, as well as the support we have received from the community these past few years. We see ourselves as a martial arts community and want to bring various martial arts events and training to this area.”  

At the May 20 event, athletes competed in Poomsae (forms) and Kyorugi (sparring).  Custom-made medals for the championship were awarded for first, second and third place.

The best-school trophy was awarded to Main Street Martial Arts of Napa.

Sonoma’s largest martial arts community is located at 1247 Broadway in Sonoma. Classes are taught by Grandmaster Robert Morey, Master Dan de la Torre (formerly of  Sonoma Taekwondo), Mr. Adam, and several black belts. 

The school is also a 501(c)3 nonprofit and, as such, offers scholarships for students who want to learn martial arts and need financial support.  

Grandmaster Morey teaches Taekwondo (7th Dan), Hapkido (7th Dan), Kumdo (3rd Dan), and  Yongmudo and is also the vice-president of the Northern California Taekwondo Association. A  three-time state champion in both Poomsae and Kyorugi, he also referees and judges at other  competitions throughout Northern California.