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A.I.M.A.A
Scotland held its National Black Belt testing at
the Lesmahagow Cho's Tae Kwon Do School, in
Lanarkshire, on Saturday the 18th of October
2008. The school is run by Instructor Mr
John Kirkwood Jnr, and only opened up to the
public in April this year. It is a large hall
offering a sprung wooden floor and multi gym to
students, as well as other high class amenities.
A.I.M.A.A
European Director Master John Darcy flew into
Scotland for the testing and to join Master
Kirkwood, who is the A.I.M.A.A Scotland
Director. Unfortunately due to commitments in
Ireland, Master Peter Byrne could not attend
this time, but sent his wishes to those testing.
Also in attendance were Mr & Mrs Phillips who
had flown in for this occasion. Mr & Mrs
Phillips are inspiring Instructors within
A.I.M.A.A Ireland and have an incredible eight
schools. Both Instructors work very hard
promoting A.I.M.A.A within Wexford, Ireland.
A.I.M.A.A
Scotland Instructors in attendance were Mr James
Lawson, who has been at Master Kirkwood's side
for over 20 years now, and is due to test for
5th degree soon. Mr Lawson was joined by Mr
Belgacem and Miss Mallon. A.I.M.A.A Black Belts
in attendance were Mr Graham, Mr Walker, Mrs
Slade and Mr Lily.
This year 20
students undertook their testing, which ranged
from 1st degree decided up to 4th degree. Three
A.I.M.A.A Scotland Instructors undertook their
next belt level under the watchful eyes of the
Masters and Black Belts in attendance. Mr John
Kirkwood Jnr and Mr Kevin Mc Lear were both
testing for 3rd degree, and Mrs Tracey Belgacem
was testing for her 4th degree.
The testing
lasted over a gruelling three hours,
incorporating all of the A.I.M.A.A Curriclum,
self defence, sparring, breaking and pad work.
Master
Kirkwood and Master Darcy commented on the
students " It was an exceptional testing with
exceptional students" |