Black belt grading success for students from the Annabel Murcott Schools of Tae Kwon Do
Proud students and instructors from the Annabel Murcott Schools of Tae Kwon Do have seen their hard work and dedication rewarded at a black belt grading.
Emma Homza, Abigail Mason and Matthew Peachey have all achieved their first dan black belts.
Zara Thiara-Mahmood now has second dan status while Adrian Roche has been recognised as a fourth dan.
Two of the club's senior instructors - Debbie Parry and Shelley Jude - have gained sixth and seventh dan grades respectively after being involved in the sport for more than 30 years.
Fellow instructor and eighth degree world master Annabel Murcott commented: "The students have to train at least twice a week or more, for four-and-a-half years and pass gradings every three to six months to even be considered to be able to take their black belts.
"It's a long, hard journey so these guys have the right to be very proud, proving hard work, dedication and good support from family and fellow students is what you need."
The black belt gradings took place at the Hellidon Lakes Golf and Leisure Resort in Daventry in front of five ninth degree grand masters from the Tae Kwon Do Association of Great Britain.
Their exam consisted of showing they could implement powerful techniques to defend themselves and disarm their opponent, along with having to sparr each other in a controlled but effective manner.
They also have to answer questions on Korean history as well as having a good knowledge of Korean terminology.
Murcott added: "This is what makes us proud to be part of the Tae Kwon Do Association of Great Britain.
"They don't practice a watered down version of martial arts. It is still taught in the same manner as when it was first introduced to the United Kingdom in 1967.
"We do not have junior gradings for children as they do the same as the adults, so they can be very proud of their achievements.
"We also do not have fast tracking or double grades. Everyone is taught at the same level and time served."
Anyone interested in joining any of Murcott's clubs in Billingborough, Bourne, Corby Glen, Crowland, Market Deeping, Stamford and Thurlby should call 07714 323995 for further information.
