David Harris Highlights Canada Open as a Global Key Event for the Growth of Taekwondo
Taekwondo Canada has strengthened its international standing through professionalized development pathways, high-quality G2 events and a clear strategy toward LA28. In this exclusive interview, Executive Director David Harris reflects on Canada’s rise as a regional and global reference.
Taekwondo Canada has strengthened its international standing through professionalized development pathways, high-quality G2 events and a clear strategy toward LA28. In this exclusive interview, Executive Director David Harris reflects on Canada’s rise as a regional and global reference.
Since 2020, David Harris MA, BSc has served as Executive Director of Taekwondo Canada, leading a sustained transformation of the country’s technical, organizational, and high-performance structure. Under his leadership, Canada has seen notable progress in coach education, talent development and international competitiveness. In February 2026, Calgary will once again host the Canada Open, one of the most influential G2 events in North America and the tournament that will officially open the ranking season for the region.
— How do you evaluate the strong rise of taekwondo in Canada?
I believe the growth of taekwondo in Canada is due to several factors. First, the development of new and existing coaches who have elevated their skills through our certification programs. Next, the progress of our athletes and their performances on the world stage. Families see the benefits of beginning taekwondo at an early age, earning a black belt, and aspiring to reach higher levels within Canada. Taekwondo Canada has also done a tremendous job providing opportunities that allow both athletes and coaches to advance toward their goals.
— How important is it to host a ranking event in your country?
Our annual Canada Open is paramount to the success and growth of taekwondo not only in Canada but internationally. It is one of the few G2 events in North America, and each edition welcomes the world at a standard we aim to bring close to a World Championships or Grand Prix. Our purpose is to offer athletes—Poomsae and Kyorugi, Cadet through Senior—a truly world-class event in a world-class city. It is also crucial for Canadian athletes to face the best athletes in the world at home, under the highest competitive conditions. We are thrilled to welcome the world back to Calgary in 2026.
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— Is it strategic to host the event so close to the U.S. Open?
Yes. Hosting our event one week prior to the U.S. Open gives athletes a strong incentive to travel to North America and compete in two G2 events in a short period of time. This reduces travel costs and encourages participation from athletes coming from the United States, Mexico, South America and around the world. From a travel perspective, this timing allows more athletes to attend the Canada Open at a more accessible cost.
— What is your goal for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games?
Our High Performance Director, Allan Wrigley, has outlined a clear plan that is consistently communicated to our athletes. We aim to qualify as many competitors as possible, with a realistic potential to reach the podium at the Games.
— What are Taekwondo Canada’s goals beyond LA28?
We pursue excellence across all areas of the organization. Growing the sport in Canada is essential to our long-term success. Our athletes continue to rise in the world rankings, and we are pleased to see new talents joining experienced Senior competitors in achieving meaningful results. We are also expanding our coaching and refereeing programs, ensuring that those who are not competing have opportunities to shine on the world stage as well.
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