Wagga's Aaron Morison performs a superb high kick on his way to achieving second degree taekwondo black belt at Lake Albert Public School hall on Friday night.

SIX of Wagga’s best taekwondo exponents have achieved black belt qualification and two others have risen to second degree black belt following a special grading clinic in the city.

Sydney-based taekwondo master Paul Mitchell made the trip down to Wagga on Friday to conduct grading for the eight aspiring masters.

All eight competitors were successful in graduating to the next belt in their taekwondo career, while a number of other Wagga pupils also progressed to lower coloured belts.

Event organiser Jannine Kennedy was yesterday delighted to announce all the competitors were given the nod to progress by the Sydney master.

“They all got their black belts,” Kennedy revealed of the eight students yesterday.

“All the others got the belts they were going for as well.

“They all did really well.

“The hall was pretty full around the edges with parents and relatives of the people, and there were a few there who I had told them about it and they came along to have a look.”

Competitors, relatives and interested onlookers filled Lake Albert Public School hall on Friday night for the special event.

Some of Wagga’s youngest taekwondo talents – including nine-year-old Kirra Bundy, 12-year-old Joseph Cheney and 14-year-old Mikayla Timms – all reached their black belt in an outstanding effort.

Twenty-year-old Andrew Johnson and 21-year-old Aaron Morison each went for their second degree black belt and achieved the requirements.

It was a rare opportunity for the Wagga stars as master Mitchell only comes to the city to hold grading sessions every three months.

Mitchell will be back in Wagga in September for any competitors wishing to make the step up.

Source: SIMON BRUNSDON
14 Jun, 2011 12:00 AM, Daily Advertiser: http://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/news/local/sport/martial-arts/wagga-experts-snap-up-black-belts/2194185.aspx