Third Degree Black Belt Test

On December 8, 2012, I achieved a goal I had set for myself 18 years ago: my Third Degree Black Belt.

According to statistics, only one in 2000 students achieves any level of black belt from a certified WTF  school (or other accredited school, as opposed to a a black belt factory school).  

The three-hour test included:

• Olymic-style Sparring, one-on-one and then two-on-one
• All Teaguk and Black Belt Forms (Poomse) up to Taebek
• Demonstrating kicks, punches, and blocks along with Korean Terminology
• Advanced Self-Defense
• Breaking boards

Here is a quick video of my breaking techniques.

I posted a number of pictures and this video on Facebook to share with friends.  The focus was not on my technique, but on attaining my goal despite many setbacks.

Interestingly, some of my friends just assumed that I simply purchased my black belt.  They didn't realize how long and hard I had to work for it.  Thankfully, I know what it took and can educate them.

You don't have to be the best athlete or the most skilled Taekwondo practitioner to achieve a goal.  You just have to set your sights and do what it takes.