The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Kang's Taekwondo Academy had seven members participate in black belt testing that lasted between two and four hours. When they were done showing and answering what they know, they all passed the test that took place in Winnipeg on Aug. 12. Master Christie Jedele and Master Tannis Stephansson passed their 2nd part of WTF 4th degree black belt. Master Stephansson felt it was a tough test. "It was two hours long and we had to write essays for this test and read them," Stephansson explained. The 42-year-old is an instructor in Denare Beach and she has been involved in the sport for nine years. "I'd never give up taekwondo," she said. "I can't even explain the feeling." Master Christie Jedele also received a special achievement award for contributions in supporting development of taekwondo, displaying exemplary manner to instructors and other members, and participating in and displaying leadership at club events and activities. Seventeen-year-old Kale Nordick was one of three students to pass their 1st Dan black belt. Nordick felt good about passing the test despite experiencing some nervousness. Now with his first Dan, Kale has other things he wants to accomplish. "I want to get more built and get better at it," he said. To this point, Kale believes he's progressed well. Wendy Murray Tyson is another student who received a 1st Dan black belt and she enjoyed the experience. "It was worth it just to watch," Murray Tyson said. "It was exhilarating and nerve wracking and you're so excited because you're gonna test. It was awesome." When it came to passing, she said it was "a rush." "It's definitely an experience everybody should go through," said Murray Tyson, who participates with her husband and three kids. Sherri Hedman, who has a green belt, went as an observer. "I thought it was a really good experience," Hedman said. "It made me less intimidated and I know what to expect." Hedman will go for testing next August and believes having watched will help. "Testing is similar to how testing is done here," she explained. "I will feel more comfortable and more prepared and ready." Other students testing and passing were Candise Rideout and Aaron Chigol for 3rd degree black belt, and Trevor Loat for his 1st degree black belt. Master Andy Jedele felt the testing was really good and was very surprised with his fourth degree black belts who endured four hours of testing. It was the longest he'd ever seen. "I was pleased with how they did. Everything went well," Master Jedele said. "I was watching all the students and they did an excellent job. I was proud to be their instructor." Special guests attending were Grand Master Simon Chung from Edmonton, Grand Master Yun Woo Joo of Korea, and Jin W Kang from Vancouver.
