The Taekwondo Journey Continues

I don't know how it happened.

It only seems like yesterday, although it was in fact the 1st of September, 2000 — over 25 years ago. I went to stand at the back of the hall with a couple of other newbies and felt like a goldfish out of water.

Still, I persevered. Just before Christmas, I drove to Salisbury for my very first grading attempt. I’m not sure it was pretty, and I felt as sick as a dog, but somehow I was back in class receiving my yellow stripe belt; I was now a 9th Kup and eligible to stand not quite at the back any more.

Twenty-Five Years Later...

Fast forward 25 years and here I am again: nervous, feeling very sick, and hoping I can at least remember the basics. It’s strange how things that you know so well seem to completely leave your brain when under stress.

This journey involved several return trips to Cannock (a 380-mile round trip) to train with Master McNally. I’m also incredibly grateful to Mr. Ovary from Romsey TKD for the countless training sessions over the years and the words of encouragement from all who have been kind enough to voice their opinions — it’s what kept me on track.

Thankfully, all the hard work paid off and I was successful in my grading attempt to 5th Degree. I was honoured to be presented with my ITC Degree Certificate at the Sovereign Open Championships in Swindon by Master McNally.

All in all, I would highly recommend this wonderful journey that is Taekwondo. For me, it’s a journey without an ending, I am pleased to say.

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