More than 50 Comox Valley Woo Kim Taekwondo students, both junior and adult, tested for their next coloured belt in taekwondo last month in front of world taekwondo grand master Gil Woo Kim.
“We have lots of new colours and it is really heartening to see the look of pride on a child’s face who has struggled with some of the skills, after they get their belt promotion,” says Sabumnim Anne Koke of her junior students. “Through taekwondo, many of them find their confidence. Children who come in brand new and can barely answer to their name at roll call are leading the class in bows and tenets after only two or three months.”
As a halftime demonstration, the red and black belts performed for spectators. Jonathan Blancas did a spectacular spinning aerial kick and Tyler Moncrieff broke two wooden boards with a split kick. Josh Southern (in photo), a junior student, is seen breaking a board with a flying side kick over two of his fellow students.
The skill and experience showcased should not scare anyone away from trying the sport. There are students in the club who have started their martial arts career in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Koke started when she was 40 and now has her third degree black.
This semester wraps up Dec. 15 and resumes early-January.
There are two children's classes offered: Courtenay Rec Centre on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Comox Rec Centre on Mondays and Wednesdays. An adult class is offered at Comox Rec Centre on Monday and Wednesday nights.
“We encourage people to come try a free class,” Koke said.
For more information contact the CRA at 250-338-5371, the Comox Rec Centre at 250-339-2255, or head instructors Koke at 250-897-9955 or Richard Dobbs at 250-897-2452.
– Comox Valley Woo Kim Taekwondo