Delta have fired the first competitive shots ahead of the second edition of the Niger Delta Games, with taekwondo headlining the opening day of the first phase of trials.The selection exercise featured individual and pair poomsae across multiple weight divisions, ranging from –58kg to +80kg for the men and –49kg to +67kg for the women. Athletes rose to the occasion, delivering crisp routines and technical precision that underscored the depth of talent within the state.Their performances earned commendation from the Director General of the Delta State Sports Commission, Emuobo Egalase, alongside members of the technical crew, who were on hand to closely assess form, fitness and competitive readiness.The trials resume on Tuesday with contests scheduled across 16 events, as athletes intensify their push to secure places on the final team for the regional sports fiesta.Team Delta narrowly missed out on the overall title at the maiden edition in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, finishing just one gold medal behind eventual champions Bayelsa State. With lessons learned from that near miss, the state is aiming to return stronger and more focused when the Games get underway on February 19 at the Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State.