On the 30th March Region 1 held its first Black
belt testing of the year and with students ranging from 1st Kup to 3rd
Degree it was set to be an emotional day of highs and lows, excitement and
elation.
After quick introductions from the examiner panel, led by
Master Nicholls and Master Rauli, the grading was ready to commence! Once all
junior tul work and degree patterns were performed there was just enough time
for a short water break before returning to floor. As self-defence routines and
kicking drills were called, this was a great opportunity for the students to
showcase their technical prowess, application of movement but perhaps more
importantly their heart and perseverance under the gruelling task which lay before
them.
Once the juniors had finished, they were instructed to pad
up and prepare for their sparring whilst the adults performed 3step, 1step and
model sparring. As the juniors returned to the floor they were focused and
raring to go. Following countless rounds of free sparring, they were instructed
to perform 2v1 sparring, a real test of their indomitable spirit… which they
passed with flying colours! It was then the time for the adults to spar and
with the help of assistant Mr Reece Nicholls we all knew we were going to
witness a display of fast kicks and furious fists from the word go.
To finish the grading the students were instructed to remove
their pads and mentally prepare themselves for breaking. Being the last segment
of the grading this was an opportunity for all testing to demonstrate correct application
and use of body mass as-well as a applying a little courage in the process.
After 4 gruelling hours, the grading had finally reached its
completion, and with Master Nicholls imparting some lasting words of wisdom to
the students testing, all present were left humbled and eager to learn more as
their journey in Taekwon-Do had reached yet another significant mile-stone.
Written by: Matthew Brunger - 16th April 2014
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