A successful junior Black Belt grading was held on 18th February. Jade Dyke, Andrew Matthews and Ross Pamflett all demonstrated the high levels expected from TKTA students. With the help of our existing Black Belts the grading was of a high standard.

Afterwards, we all enjoyed a meal at Pizza Hut. As is tradition the TKTA treated the grading students to the menu of their choice.

April 2001

The new style web site was launched this month. It took several months to complete, we hope that you enjoy your browsing.

The junior grading, held on 22nd April, was well attended with hopeful students and their parents. A good standard was shown and several black and brown belts attended to help push the lower grades to their potential. We saw a few tears, but a lot of good Kenpo. You can see the students in their post grading photo in the photo section below.

Well done to all who attended especially to those who graded to their next belt

Andrew Matthews was awarded a scholarship at the April junior grading. The scholarship is given to a student that demonstrates outstanding effort and attitude in accordance with the Kenpo spirit. This award is given for more than just ability, and entitles them to a months free training in the club.

Mrs O'Connor commented that she was especially pleased that Andrew had won the award. 'Andrew always sets a high standard, one to be followed. He levels his sparring to the individual opponent. Above all he is trustworthy'

May 2001

Another of our students has passed their junior Black Belt test.

On 13th May Peter Truman endured two and half hours of mental and physical testing. With the encouragement of his family and existing Black Belts he demonstrated the standard expected for this grade.

It is on these occasions you really see what a student can do. Peter himself remarked afterwards that he thought it was going to be a lot easier. The final minutes saw Peter at the point of giving up but he dug deep with the final round of sparring fighting four of his fellow Black Belts all at the same time.

The traditional post grading meal was enjoyable and gave everyone a chance to relax and have a chat.

The TKTA also launched it's guestbook this month, which you can find from our home page.

Finally got the photos developed so here is a picture of Mark and Jane on their wedding day. Congratulations to you both from the TKTA. Mark has been a significant part of the TKTA since it was founded, and both have been close friends to Jo and Paul for many years.

July 2001

Sunday 8th

Paul and Jo O'Connor were invited to sit on the grading panel of the American Kenpo Karate Academy by chief instructor, Mr Les Grihault. Mr Grihault is the UK representative for the American Kenpo Karate International.

The grading was held in Jarrow. Both Paul and Jo enjoyed the grading as did Mr Grihault and his students.

Following the grading, Paul conducted a seminar entitled 'options'. This showed the choices in a potential confrontation, from total avoidance to finally neutralising the threat. Paul enjoyed this opportunity, as it was his first seminar. It was a shame that time was short but the journey home took well over 5 hours.

Paul and Jo would like to extend their thanks to new found friends in the Kenpo family.