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Beginners Diary - Sandra
Sandra's Diary Print

Green Tag

I went for my 7th Kup, Green tag grading on the 7th February 2012. I had studied the theory and language and was confident that I knew all the terminology. I felt ready for the grading and any theory questions that I may be asked.

There were only three of us grading that evening. our examiners, Senior Master Phelan and Mr Mc Sherry our instructor were at the table and called us individually to complete our Pattern Dan-Gun Tul.

My heart was racing with nerves as you are always afraid that you will either forget a move or perform it incorrectly. Thankfully the pattern went well.

The next aspect of the examination was the three step sparring. There was a new syllabus for the three step sparring and we were the first to be examined on it so again nerves played a part. I was happy with the way the three step went.

The final part was the theory, unfortunately I did get some questions wrong but luckily engough it didnt result in my failing the grading. It just proves that even after passing through two previous gradings that you still get nervous and it can affect you.

We have, since the grading moved into Grand Master Howards class. The level of intensity in training has increased. I am looking forward to the next grading and the training I will do in Grand Master Howards class. The theory I will work on as it seems to be a lot more complex than previous theory.  It is all part of the challenge and I am looking forward to it.

 

 

9th Kup White Belt

I graded for my yellow belt at the end of August. I was not as nervous this time having already completed one grading.

Senior Master Phelan and Mr Doyle were the examiners on the night. I find it a great experience to perform your patterns and Three Step Sparring on front of such experienced Taekwon-Do practitioners. They  provide great advice on how to improve your Taekwon-Do skills which gives you greater confidence as you learn new things.

The Korean theory can be difficult but it is an essential part of learning but I always try to remember that I can only always try my best. I was elated to pass the grading and am looking forward to learning the syllabus for the next belt.

 

10th Kup White Belt

Let me start off by saying why I am in Taekwon-do. I joined on the 8th February 2011 as there was a beginners class starting in Master Howards Dojang in Cabra. I really felt comfortable joining and am very glad I did join. There are seven of us in the beginners class and we all get on well. Our Instructor Mr Leon McSherry, 4th Degree is a very good teacher and has a great personality. We all get on very well with him (which I think is important).

Every Tuesday and Thursday I look forward to our class. I feel really good when I leave the class as I find it great for the physical exercise and keeping fit and learning self defence is something that always comes in handy.

I went to my first seminar on the 22nd May in St. Marks Dojang in Tallaght. I was nervous starting off but was really looking forward to it. Senior Master Phelan and Senior Master Howard were the instructors running the seminar.

The seminar started at 10am and we did a lot of warm ups, running and patterns. Senior Master Phelan then took the lower belts and went over patterns and technique. It was good to get the practice as practice makes perfect and I really enjoyed it. The feedback I received was brilliant it is great to get those comments because it helps you develop the skills  required in Taekwon-Do. Some of the comments I received were to practice my waling stance and to keep my shoulders square when punching. I always respect the feedback given to me as the instructors are there to teach you. They were once in my position and were given instruction and they have become amazing teachers.

Our first grading was on Tuesday 24th May in Senior Master Howard's Dojang in Cabra. At the table grading us were Senior Master Phelan, Senior Master Howard, Master Howard, as well as Mr Fox and my Instructor Mr McSherry. As part of the grading we did press ups, front rising kicks four directional punch amongst other things. We then were called to the table to answer questions on terminology and history of Taekwon-Do.  Everyone was tense but it was a great learning experience. I am looking forward to the next grading already. My daughter Shannon is instructed by Mr Fox, 4th degree so we can practice with each other and did so before the last grading.

I would like in years to come to teach my own class of students as I am really dedicated to my Taekwon-Do and have not missed a class since we started and I don't intend to miss one. Final quote , " You are never to old to learn martial arts and you will be surprised at how much you will enjoy it and always think positive, never give up".

 




© Grandmaster Robert Howard, 2010-2012.
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