A Historic Achievement: Gordon Cheuk Makes Taekwondo History for Canada and Wu’s Taekwondo

We are dedicating this post to celebrate the incredible achievement of Gordon Cheuk, who has made history not only for our school, but for Canada. Gordon has been training silently on his own with his sister and coach, Master Holly Cheuk. His hard work truly paid off when he earned Canada’s first medal at the Games, and also the first-ever Taekwondo medal for Canada at the Summer Universiade Games.

To show our appreciation, here’s a little insider story on how he made it to the podium at one of the world’s biggest multi-sport events.

With his teammates Kai-Hsin Chang and Ethan So all the way in Toronto, Ontario, Gordon’s journey training alone wasn’t easy. In team events like this, it’s crucial to work together to build timing, synchronization, and team chemistry. Fortunately, these athletes have competed together for years and already had a strong bond.

In the lead-up to the Games, Gordon struggled with a serious shoulder injury that forced him to taper much of his training.

“His shoulder probably dislocated over 10 times this past year,” said Master Holly Cheuk.

At times, even just raising his arms to stretch would cause a dislocation. This took a toll not only on his physical performance but also his mental strength. Despite the pain, he didn’t want to let his team down and felt the pressure to push through.

Although his teammates were in another province, Gordon continued training with his team here at Wu’s Taekwondo, who provided support, motivation, and encouragement. Leading up to the Games, he was anxious and felt the pressure of representing Canada. To support him, Master Holly Cheuk travelled to Germany to coach from the sidelines, giving him a sense of familiarity and comfort while competing in a new and high-stress environment.

As the Canada men’s team performed their final routine, the entire arena waited in anticipation for the results. Canada had tied with the USA for a podium spot.

Behind the curtains in the warm-up area, the rest of Team Canada listened carefully as the referee announced the results. That’s when they heard the words from the Team Canada Head Coach, Master Kang:

“They (Canada) did it.”

Master Holly Cheuk and Emma Chau (female individual/team athlete) heard it first and rushed to tell the male team, who were still unsure what had just happened. Then the whole Team Canada crew erupted with cheers and celebration.

Meanwhile, the parents outside were peeking through the curtains, trying to figure out the results—but seeing the team cheer was enough to confirm it: Canada made it. It was a triumphant win for the country, and for our dedicated athlete Gordon Cheuk, who had pushed through injury and distance to reach the podium.

“What you did, it was enough.” – Allan Wrigley, Head of Team Canada

Now back home in Vancouver, Gordon was greeted by his team at Wu’s with a surprise celebration: a bag of ramen noodles, a cake, and a handwritten letter. The support from the masters, coaches and teammates we have here will always be aparent when our very own makes a mark for the country.

Right after the celebration, he headed straight to surgery for his shoulder. We wish him the very best in his recovery, and we look forward to seeing what’s next for this inspiring athlete.