Quentin Blackwell and Thomas Lewthwaite train at Flynns Beach Surf Club in hap ki do – a Korean martial art.

Regional instructor and second degree black belt Matts Beyer travelled to Ballina in September with students wanting to grade.

Quintin Blackwell was strong and easily secured his first degree black belt, while Thomas Lewthwaite was

outstanding in a pre-grading assessment and earned his second degree black belt.

Instructor Garry Graham was very pleased with their grading results.

“They made the commitment 12 months ago, trained hard and studied diligently,” he said.

“They travelled to other regional centers like Byron Bay to train with fourth-dan Jamie Bennett and sixth dan Master Kevin Brown.

“Gradings under Master Brown are rigorous and gruelling and standards are high. It’s much harder and more competitive in Sydney, plus the gradings are longer, making attaining a black belt a considerable achievement.

“Both students brought much credit to their club and demonstrate, that focus, dedication and hard training are no stranger to this club.”

After the grading, Master Brown and Master Geister spoke of the high standard the students displayed.

Lee-Ann Foord was successful in November with her first degree black belt exam at Byron Bay.

If you are interested in training in martial arts and would like to practice with the Australian Hapkido Association, contact Matts Beyer on 6585 4487, Garry Graham on 6584 9306 or 0412697303, or Lee-Ann Foord on 6584 3832.