(It's A Long Way) from Dublin to Halifax . . .: 2nd Dan Black Belt Grading

Sunday, December 11, 2022

2nd Dan Black Belt Grading

Six and a half years into this Taekwon-do journey! Feeling satisfied, exhausted, emotional and proud. This one is dedicated to Master Bill Stoerig and all my TKD famjam. #BlackBelt #SecondDan

That was my Facebook post last night after achieving my second Dan Black Belt! But there is so much more to the story . . .

Quite a few people reading this likely don't know what makes up the formal test and even if you know, seeing it is quite different to just knowing. As was evidenced by the faces and the comments from the family members that witnessed this.

First up is "Fundamentals" - the movements that make up the patterns. Then the patterns themselves - there are 14 in all, each with increasing complexity. This is the ‘art’ part. After that, we will have In-close self defence (where we show some defence moves); step-sparring, which are choreographed attack and defence techniques with a partner; model sparring is also choreographed but I get to make them up! And full-on sparring with two partners showing hand and foot techniques - the fight part!! After that is board breaking x3, one with a punch, two with kicks. Then it’s new belt and photos!

It's designed to push you to your max, especially when you are being beaten up by your friends. And this is one of the big differences between my first and second Dans. The first one was during Covid lock-down so there was no contact, no sparring, no board break, all punching or kicking was just in the air. Consequently there is a part of me that has felt like I didn't really 'get' my First Dan. I know, I know - the grading is a formality, that we earn the belt over time. But. . . It felt so good to do it all and feel like I got there this time. Now, if I never promote again, I will be satisfied.

Having said that First Dan was a goal for many years; but 2nd was not something I really thought about. I got there by being an active Black Belt, as opposed to just 'getting' a black belt. I continued my training, I showed up, I taught, I sweated (alot), I learned (alot - some of which I thought I already knew. Ha!)

So here I am in my mid-50s, a second degree Black Belt. If all goes well - no injuries or health concerns - in a few more years I may add the Third. The plan is to keep showing up, keep training, keep teaching and keep on learning.

I also have to say how grateful I am for the support along the way and on the day. Having family there was a treat, and having Andrea & Nancy (along with some other senior club members, yes that includes you Miss P as well as our Irish TKD famjam) support me this past year and a half has been life-affirming and soul-satisfying. Being trained by the best of the best is also something I don't take for granted. And that's why I dedicate this one to Master Bill! Thank you for doing what you do and sharing your knowledge with us. We will keep it going.

I am noting some comments below - because I want to be reminded in years to come

"I was so impressed with your tremendous stamina and memory and strong balance and core strength. Many congrats. You are deserving of great pride. Love you and now just a bit scared of you. . ."
"Congratulations again my dear! That is a major accomplishment. Not just a matter of remembering all that stuff (in Korean) but a major endurance feat as well. Impressed by the fight at the end! That’s serious stuff! Well, I am quite confident that you can look after yourself anywhere. May hire you as a body guard?"
"Terrific, proud, big day, congratulations again. You knocked it out of the park, I’m so happy for you."
"You’re a shining star Ele - and an inspiration to so many. Well done YOU. Was a joy to watch you achieve this and thanks for letting me be a fly on the wall".
"Yesterday was a special day for our friend Eleanor who became a 2nd Dan in TKD. She gave a brilliant showing and we are so proud of her. #tkdfamily #blackbelt #tkdishard #friendship"
"What a large day yesterday! First I got to beat on and watch my friend Eleanor seriously crush her 2nd Dan test. Amazing job Elle!"

"That was truly impressive!"

"Today was a true testament to your determination, dedication and perseverance. You are such an example for us all on what commitment can accomplish."