Funds raised through annual tournament top $42,000 and bring cumulative giving for Dong’s School to $505,000

Held on June 3, 2017, the 46th Anniversary Dong’s Martial Arts Tournament raised $42,017 for Children’s Hospital Foundation (CHF). As a benefit for CHF, this annual event is a celebration of the true spirit of martial arts: the willingness to help others as well as yourself. This is the 21st year the event has supported CHF, and the competition has raised over $505,000 to date.

“We are so grateful for the continued support we have from Dong’s Karate Schools,” said Stephanie Allan, Vice President for Community Development, Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Our Foundation relies heavily on our community to continue providing much needed financial support for the people and the programs at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. Together, with the support from Grandmaster Dong and Dong’s Karate Schools we are making a big difference in the lives of thousands of children in our Richmond area. This year’s gift is the biggest yet and we are excited for the 2018 event.”

Founded by 9th degree black belt, Grandmaster Seung Dong, the Dong’s Martial Arts Tournament featured participants of all ages competing in different categories related to Tae Kwon Do and Pro Tae Kwon Do—forms, free sparring, and breaking.

Grandmaster Dong has reached the highest degree in Tae Kwon Do certified by Kukkiwon in Korea. He also earned his ninth degree black belt in Kum Do (swordsmanship) and Pro Tae Kwon Do and won the “King of the World Speed Champions” title in the first-ever Grand Master Tournament in 1999. Grand Master Dong is a world-renowned martial arts instructor who has filmed videos and published books on the subject, his latest book being “Where is My Black Belt?” He has also been voted as a favorite role model for children in the Richmond community. He and his instructors teach the ancient arts of self-defense: Tae Kwon Do, Kum Do, Hap Ki Do and Pro Tae Kwon Do.

All photos by Laura Matthews Photography