Excellent Results at September Grading
It was smiles all round this weekend as the students of Bewdley Tae Kwon Do Club aced their grading. The club is new to the area, with students only having had between 3 and 6 months training. Despite this the club not only achieved a 100% pass rate but most also gained the highest level normally awarded- A-Pass grades, meaning they excelled in all aspects of their tests. Students are marked on application of techniques, patterns, sparring skills and their theoretical knowledge which means gradings are very comprehensive and require months of training and dedication.
6 year old Grace Bentley-Hughes was the youngest in the grading and impressed all with her kicks which flew high above her head. She also stunned a panel of black belts with her knowledge of the Tenants of Taekwondo, Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control and Indomoitable Spirit. A-Pass grades were awarded to Simon Whale (8th Kup), Samantha Tyrell (8th Kup), Simon Tyrell (9th Kup), Claire Bishop (9th Kup), and Pippa Lock (9th Kup). A rare sight for students of all levels is an A* Pass, only achieved by the elite. 13 year old Ashlee Whale (daughter of Simon, and medal winner at the North Midlands Championship earlier this year) shone through all elements of her grading and was awarded this prestigious mark. Her skills were clearly well practiced and her natural talent was apparent to all. She had also worked hard on her Korean Theory and answered every question asked with confidence and clarity.
The Bewdley School is our local branch of the Tae Kwon Do Association of Great Britain (TAGB), one of the largest martial arts associations in Europe. The students were honored to be graded by Master Paul Donnelly, 7th Dan Black Belt, who was impressed by the standard on the day. Instructor Katie Billingham 2nd Dan Belt, has over thirteen years experience in the art. She told reporters “I’m so pleased with the results and very proud. They are a hard working group, and model students. It is a small club, with only 10 students but it means I am able to give each student more time and attention to fine tune their skills.”
As part of the West Midlands Tae Kwon Do group, other clubs at the grading included Kidderminster, Dudley, Hagley, Ludlow, Bilston and Bloxwich. There was a 100% pass rate across the board, displaying the high standards at this group of schools. Bloxwich students also achieved A-Passes across the board.
The clubs are now in training for the British Championships, taking place in October which celebrates the 25th anniversary of the TAGB and is set to be an exciting event with displays from the Chairman, and committee of the national organization.
To get involved with Tae Kwon Do, contact Senior Instructor Vince Farquharson on 07971 003079, or visit the club’s website www.westmidstkd.co.uk
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