site.btaMario Bogdanov: First Bulgarian Grandmaster at ITF

Mario Bogdanov became the first Bulgarian grandmaster in the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF), the Bulgarian federation announced.

"Grandmaster Bogdanov is a figure with a key role in the establishment of ITF in Bulgaria. Thanks to his many years of hard work, strategic vision and continuous support to the International Federation, he has placed Bulgaria among the leading forces in the world of martial arts. Under his leadership, generations of champions, coaches and referees grew up who today enjoy international recognition," the headquarters said in a statement.

"This award is a recognition not only for me, but for the whole of Bulgarian Taekwon-Do. I am proud that we have built a tradition and positioned Bulgaria as a strong factor on the world stage," Bogdanov said after the ceremony.

During the same meeting, two more leading Bulgarian masters received the prestigious 8th dan (becoming senior master instructors): Master Vergiliy Sitnilski, Secretary General of the Bulgarian Taekwon-Do Federation, Vice President of the Referee Commission of the European Federation and member of the ITF Tournament Commission; and Master Kostadin Dimitrov, Vice President of the Bulgarian Taekwon-Do Federation and Mayor of Plovdiv, a long-time supporter of the sport and the Taekwon-Do movement in Bulgaria.

"All three Bulgarians proved that besides being champion makers, they are also strategic leaders who drive the development of ITF at international level. By recognizing Grandmaster Bogdanov and Masters Sitnilski and Dimitrov, Bulgaria has consolidated its position as one of the leading forces in the world of ITF Taekwon-Do. This is not only a recognition of individual merit, but also a symbol of a strong school, a clear vision and a deep tradition," the federation added.