Seventh Dan taekwondo exponent, Master Phil Monaghan from Coffs Harbour’s Diamond Martial Arts, officiated as judge in determining the merit of awarding Masters degrees to Murray Hicks and Pierre Wilkinson.

A thorough examination of Murray and Pierre’s abilities and knowledge of taekwondo was conducted on the day, which also saw the Nambucca Valley Taekwondo Club gain a 3rd Dan in young Chris Powers.

Chris was impressive despite having to climb out of his sick bed to perform at the grading.

Penny O’Brien also braved judgement of her skill set and proved that she deserved promotion to 2nd Dan.

Penny gained her 1st Dan some time ago, had a sabbatical to overcome sciatica, and then resumed training with dedication and has been rewarded with a second tip.

Gillian Sharp proved relentless in her determination to gain her black belt with an outstanding display of grit and ability to secure her ShoDanBo – making her a provisional black belt.

Four of our blue belts progressed to red belt.

David Waters never took a backwards step, displaying fantastic control and strength in his attempt, and is progressing nicely towards attainment of his black belt.

Sam Bellamy should be pleased to finally gain his red belt with his usual honest effort, loud kihaps and strong fighting.

Lauren Trevethon double graded again, showing excellent technique and a full comprehension of the requirements necessary to become a red belt.

Jackson Purcell was the smallest competitor but had the biggest heart, taking on all comers without any self doubts and is now just one step away from becoming a red belt.

Several students had booked into the grading but had to withdraw due to the influenza mini epidemic that has laid low many in the Valley.

Thankfully Chelsea Dignam and Shaylee Langham were not affected and attended their first grading.

They were confident and secured their yellow belts with ease.

Congratulations to all who participated and thanks to those family members and friends who offered support, plus to canteen volunteers Judy and Terrianne.

Anthony O’Gower, 2nd Dan in the local club, lent valuable assistance as did Wayne Cooper, who selflessly allowed himself to be a demonstration dummy by Master Phil.

Wayne is also a 2nd Dan and along with Anthony conducts classes at Nambucca Headland Hall on Fridays and Sundays.

Master Murray trains mainly at Bowraville on Wednesdays and has been providing tuition for at least 25 years there.

Master Pierre trains at Eungai Memorial Hall on Mondays and Macksville High School’s stadium on Fridays with young Chris Powers who is being trained to soon run Fridays himself.

All three senior belts also train with Wayne and Anthony on Sundays.

The Nambucca Valley Taekwondo Club trains five days a week at five different venues offering all residents in the Valley an opportunity to learn taekwondo.

For more information call Master Pierre on 0265 699-447.