THREE instructors at Strike Taekwondo have passed their belt promotion test after being scrutinised by 8th Dan Black Belt Tony Vohra, a 1st Class international instructor and referee.

Charlotte Jewsbury and Damien Barber were tested for 3rd Dan Black Belt and Ben Mitchell for a 4th Dan Black Belt, having all started at the Keighley club as students some 14 years ago under the guidance of chief instructor Lisa Winteridge.

Among the tasks the trio had to perform in what were gruelling gradings were continuous sparring (fighting 1v1 or 2v1), all on-the-spot kicking techniques (moving forwards, moving backwards and aerials), self defence, one-step sparring, breaking via kicks (using the right and left leg), breaking via hand, Poomsae (traditional pattern of movements) and Korean terminology and understanding.

Lisa said: "I’m very proud of how far Ben, Charlotte and Damien have come.

"They are my original students from when I first opened the club and have shown years of dedication to their martial art.

"They thoroughly deserve their new grades and are an inspiration to our students.

"All have developed their skills greatly over the last few years and have worked particularly hard during the last few months in preparation for the grading.

"To have two 3rd Dan Black Belts and a second Master (4th Dan), within our club means students can be assured they are learning from high-level taekwondoists and experienced instructors."

Damien added: "For me, the best thing about the grading is having someone of Grand Master Vohra’s experience taking it. I’m always inspired by him.

"As far as 3rd Dan goes, I think it’s important to have goals and achievements at all levels. Achieving 3rd Dan gives me more confidence when teaching, particularly higher kup grades and black belts."

Strike Taekwondo is based at Keighley Business Centre on South Street, and Ben teaches all ages every Monday (6.30pm-8pm) while Damien teaches ‘Taekwondo Tigers’ family classes every Wednesday (6pm-7pm).

All other classes are run by Lisa Winteridge, who can be contacted on 07919-898651 or at lisa@striketaekwondo.co.uk for a free trial.