ABOUT THE DRAGON OPEN
Get ready for the 2th edition of the Dragon Open — a premier ITF Taekwon-Do tournament organized by Stephen “The Dragon” Tapilatu, a true icon in the Taekwon-Do world.
On September 19, 2026, De Bonte Wever in Assen, the Netherlands, will host this high-level competition, bringing together talented athletes from around the world for an unforgettable event. With a focus on professionalism, top-tier organization, and strong competition, the Dragon Open is a must-attend tournament on the ITF calendar.
Black belt competitors will compete in the Black Belt League, where a double-elimination system guarantees multiple matches, more rounds, more time on the tatami, and greater experience.
Stay updated via the website and register early to benefit from the early bird discount and secure your spot at Dragon Open 2026
WHEN
Saturday
September 19, 2026
WHAT
Events with Patterns
and Sparring
TOURNEMENT DETAILS
IMPORTANT DATES
Registration Opens:
We’ll announce the date soon – stay tuned on our website!
Early Bird Entry Closes:
We’ll announce the date soon – stay tuned on our website!
Entry Closes:
We’ll announce the date soon – stay tuned on our website!
HOW TO ENTER
Entries are submitted collectively by club instructors/association head, on behalf of all competitors via the SportData system.
Limited spots available – only 5 black belts per category can register!
SPECTATOR TICKETS
Entrance Fees
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General admission (13 years and older):
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Children (5–12 years):
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Children under 5 years:
Payments can be made via QR code or in cash at the entrance.
MEET THE PROMOTERS
Stephen “The Dragon” Tapilatu is one of the legends of ITF Taekwon-Do.
There are very few who, to this day, can match his competitive record:
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2 x ITF Taekwon-Do World Champion
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2 x ITF European Champion
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2 x King of Taekwon-Do
As well as ITF, he is a former K1, Kickboxing and MMA Fighter.
Sahyun Stephen is a professional Instructor and international coach.
His full time academy “TKD Groningen” are situated in his home town of Groningen, The Netherlands.
Sahyun
Stephen Tapilatu
7th Degree Black Belt
Johann de Silva is the former Head Coach of the ITF England and currently the Wales Head Coach with considerable coaching experience at international level since 2006.
In 2019, he was promoted to ITF Master, 7th Degree Black Belt, by the ITF Technical Committee.
A former World Champion, he has conducted sparring seminars in Sri Lanka and India, and in February of 2018 he delivered sparring seminars in four cities in Argentina.
Sahyun Johann started his Taekwon-Do Association, De Silva Taekwon-Do, in 1998. He now has six academies all based in West London, England.
7th Degree Black Belt
Sayhun
Johann de Silva
Sabum
Tim Kool
6th Degree Black Belt
Sabum Tim Kool is a two-time ITF Taekwon-Do World Champion and a former WKA Kickboxing World Champion. He is also the founder of Sportschool Tim Kool in Delft, the Netherlands — a renowned Taekwon-Do academy for training and competition.
Not only is Sabum Tim known for his former competitive career, he is also the head organizer of the highly successful ITF Taekwon-Do tournament, the Holland Cup. In addition, he co-organizes, alongside his friend and business partner, Sahyun Johann de Silva — another hugely popular ITF Taekwon-Do competition: The Warrior Open.
Sabum
Rory de Vries
6th Degree Black Belt
Sabum Rory de Vries is an ITF international umpire who began his umpire career at the 2012 World Cup in Brighton.
Since then, he has officiated at every European Championships, World Cup, and World Championships.
Sabum Rory is regarded with trust by top-level international athletesand with respect by national coaches for his fairness, consistency, clarity, and composure under pressure.
Now, he is the main umpire across this full tournament series: the Warrior Open, the Holland Cup, and the highly anticipated Dragon Open.
Equipment requirements
To ensure safety, fairness and professionalism, all competitors at the Dragon Open must comply with the ITF equipment standards.
Sparring equipment
All participants must bring their own complete set of sparring equipment. For the black-belt competitors it is mandatory to bring blue and red headguards. This will be checked prior to entering the ring.
Required items:
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Headguard (mandatory to bring blue and red headguards)
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Semi-contact gloves
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Semi-contact boots
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Mouth guard (transparent)
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Shin guards (optional)
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Groin guard (mandatory for male competitors)
Please ensure all equipment is clean, in good condition, and ITF-standard. Black-belt competitors without the required equipment will not be allowed to participate in sparring matches.
Don't miss out!
Dragon Open 2025 Official T-Shirt
Be part of history with the 1st Edition Dragon Open T-shirt – a true collector’s item from the very first Dragon Open tournament in Assen! This striking design combines power, tradition, and style, making it a must-have for every martial arts fan.
✅ Limited 1st Edition – your chance to own a piece of Dragon Open history
✅ Bold dragon design – stand out and show your spirit
✅ Comfortable fit – perfect for both training and casual wear
✅ Available only during the tournament
Price: €29,95
Pay easily via QR code or in cash at the event.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
TRAVEL & ACCOMODATION
All participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation. Competitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tournament.
Getting there
Most competitors travel to the Dragon Open by either flying or driving.
By air
Fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, then take a regular train from Amsterdam Central Station to Assen. The venue, De Bonte Wever, is located just minutes from the train station.
Where to stay
We recommend booking your accommodation at the tournament venue:
De Bonte Wever, Assen
Website: www.debontewever.nl
This hotel offers the convenience of staying on-site with easy access to the competition areas.
Additional information
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Food and drinks: While there may be refreshments available at the venue, we strongly recommend bringing your own snacks, sandwiches, and water. Avoid items with sauces, as they can leak and stain your uniform.
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Spectator tickets: All spectators require a ticket.
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Parking: On-site parking is available at De Bonte Wever.