Athleticism, strength, discipline, focus

East Kildonan

More than 8,000 people have passed through Keith Saunders’ Taekwondo Academy over three-plus decades, and he cares about every single one.

That affection was on display at Bernie Wolfe School on May 31, when the academy held black belt testing. It was extra-special, as members tested for black stripes all the way up to a rare sixth dan black belt.

The gym was packed with family and supporters on a hot day as the students performed their poomsae, which are series of movements designed to train muscles while maintaining balance, posture and power. The memorization of long routines promotes discipline while teaching offensive and defensive actions. With the weather so warm, it took even more focus.

Poomsae are individual acts, but when they are performed in a group, as they were on May 31, the symmetry evokes a sense of peace and harmony.

Athleticism, strength, discipline and focus were on constant display. Students broke multiple boards stacked on top of each other. Some smashed through cement slabs.

Many had to chop, kick and punch through a gauntlet of students holding boards in different positions. With a running start, one leaped over four kneeling students to split a board in half. From a standing position, another jumped straight up and kicked through boards on his left and right.

Following the testing, Saunders commended his students for their hard work and years of practice.

“The meaning of your belt is your indomitable spirit, the spirit that won’t let you quit. That spirit you have inside you is something not many have,” he said.

“It is the discipline that brought you back to the dojang decade after decade, and it is that discipline that will not fail you in life. You entered this test as iron, and you leave as forged steel. Carry this strength into the world and wear your new rank with humility and honour.”

Saunders added that he was deeply proud of his students and would be forever. After the ceremony, he shared individual stories of how hard they had trained for this day. He spoke equally proudly of their achievements in school, family and work, all places where the lessons they learn in the dojang will be put to use.

Those testing for the first level (“dan”) received a lily, which they were to plant at home. Saunders said it represents the purity and innocence of the seed planted within them when they first stepped into the dojang. Like the plant, they will face hardships, but their roots of training will allow them to flourish with integrity, unwavered by others.

Congratulations to Master Adelle Lusansky, who tested for her sixth dan. With 34 years in taekwondo, she’s competed in 30 international tournaments, nine Canadian Nationals, three US Opens, and many other prestigious events. Lusansky is one of an estimated 25 women in Canada to earn her sixth dan.